• BMW and MINI drivers will receive discounted rates when charging at IONNA locations across the U.S.

• Access seamlessly enabled through Plug & Charge and the My BMW App

Woodcliff Lake, N.J. – May 14, 2026… BMW of North America today announced the launch of a preferred pricing program at IONNA charging locations across the U.S., further enhancing the public charging experience for BMW and MINI electric vehicle drivers.

Starting today, BMW and MINI drivers who initiate charging with Plug & Charge or the My BMW App will receive 20% off charging sessions through September 30, 2026. The offering is fully integrated within the vehicle’s digital ecosystem and automatically applied—no additional cards, subscriptions, or manual activation required. This creates an easy “charge-and-go” experience, underscoring the company’s continued focus on reducing complexity and improving everyday usability as public charging becomes an integral part of electric mobility.

“BMW firmly believes in an electric future, and it’s no secret that reliable high-speed charging infrastructure remains essential to the continued growth of the electric vehicle market,” said Shaun Bugbee, Executive Vice President, BMW of North America. “We currently offer one of the broadest portfolios of premium electric vehicles in the U.S., with the next-generation BMW iX3 arriving in the U.S. later this year. As our electric vehicle offerings continue to expand, initiatives like this help ensure our customers enjoy a seamless ownership experience wherever they travel.”

IONNA — the charging joint venture founded by eight global automakers, including BMW — has rapidly expanded its U.S. footprint and now operates more than 1,000 charging bays nationwide, with significant additional growth underway. Recent strategic partnerships, including large-scale deployments at premium, high-traffic locations, are expected to accelerate network expansion over the coming years.

IONNA charging sites are designed for next-generation performance and reliability, offering high-power DC fast charging, compatibility with NACS and CCS connectors, and thoughtfully planned locations intended to support real-world travel needs. BMW’s participation in the network reflects a broader strategy to deliver a cohesive charging ecosystem spanning home, workplace, and public charging solutions.

BMW will continue working with IONNA and its fellow founding partners to scale high-quality public charging access while ensuring BMW drivers benefit from seamless technology integration and a premium ownership experience.

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BMW Group in the U.S. 

BMW Group began operations in the U.S. over 50 years ago. In addition to the sales, marketing, and distribution of BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad vehicles, BMW Group’s business in the U.S. spans 30 locations in 12 states including BMW Group Financial Services, BMW Manufacturing, Designworks, BMW Technology Office USA, and BMW i Ventures. The company’s U.S. plant in South Carolina is the largest single BMW production facility in the world and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented by a nationwide network of 355 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. Taken together, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. provide and support over 120,000 jobs and contribute more than $43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually. For more information about BMW Group’s business and products in the U.S., please visit: PressClub USA.

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• IONNA and Circle K Enter Partnership to Expand Access to EV Charging in the U.S. at IONNA Rechargeries @ Circle K

DURHAM, N.C.  – April 14, 2026 … IONNA, the charging network founded by eight of the world’s top automakers, including BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Toyota, announced a landmark strategic partnership with leading convenience and mobility brand Circle K to significantly expand access to high-powered EV charging across the United States.

The collaboration is centered around a strategic ambition to expand to more than 350 sites featuring Rechargeries @ Circle K, combining IONNA’s charging technology and driver-first experience with Circle K’s nationwide footprint. IONNA, which will assume operation of sites across Circle K’s existing U.S. charging portfolio, will rapidly convert and upgrade approximately 85 existing Circle K charging sites. Additionally, IONNA will accelerate new deployments at premium, high-traffic Circle K locations where no chargers currently exist. The first Rechargeries @ Circle K will begin serving customers by the end of 2026, followed by additional scale in 2027.

“We are honored that Circle K has recognized IONNA as a leader in the industry and entrusted us to serve their customers with the same care and commitment to excellence that they show now,” said Aaron Wolff, COO of IONNA. “Circle K’s scale, customer focus, and quality of location make them an ideal partner as we rapidly expand high-power charging where drivers already want to stop.”

With more than 7,300 stores in the U.S., Circle K is known for value, quality products and fast, friendly service at well‑maintained sites with modern stores and forecourts. Circle K offers a wide selection of snacks, fresh grab-and-go food, packaged and dispensed beverages, everyday convenience items and car wash options at select locations.

“At Circle K, our ambition is to make EV charging as easy and convenient as possible for our customers,” said Håkon Stiksrud, VP of Global eMobility at Circle K. “Partnering with IONNA enables us to scale high-power charging quickly at locations drivers already trust—combining fast, reliable charging with a great food and beverage experience. This partnership is an important step in preparing for the future, delivering not just charging, but a complete retail experience that supports our customers on the go.”

Under joint stewardship, drivers at Rechargeries @ Circle K can recharge both their EVs and themselves, with IONNA delivering charging speeds of up to 400 kW, plus both NACS and CCS access, and Circle K having road-trip favorites that fuel drivers on their journey.

The partnership advances IONNA’s mission to build 30,000 high-power charging bays by 2030.

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BMW Group in the U.S. 

BMW Group began operations in the U.S. over 50 years ago. In addition to the sales, marketing, and distribution of BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad vehicles, BMW Group’s business in the U.S. spans 30 locations in 12 states including BMW Group Financial Services, BMW Manufacturing, Designworks, BMW Technology Office USA, and BMW i Ventures. The company’s U.S. plant in South Carolina is the largest single BMW production facility in the world and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented by a nationwide network of 355 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. Taken together, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. provide and support over 120,000 jobs and contribute more than $43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually. For more information about BMW Group’s business and products in the U.S., please visit: PressClub USA.

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• Tradition meets the future: 104 years of history utilizing state-of-the-art technology.
• Series production of the new BMW i3 to start in August 2026, with more models to follow.
• Transformation to all BEV production from 2027.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 1, 2026… 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, begins 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, digitilization, and AI.”

BMW Group Plant Munich has undergone extensive modernization 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 produce all-electric vehicles exclusively, 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 reduced production costs considerably 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 percent, bringing them below the level of the current vehicle generation,” says Peter Weber, Head of BMW Group Plant Munich. In addition to optimized production processes, and targeted automation and digitilization, the new vehicle architecture of the Neue Klasse also ensures efficiency.   

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

Highly efficient production at an historic site.

Plant Munich has been reinventing itself consistently 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 digitilization. Within this framework, the company’s plants around the world are implementing site-specific solutions and, in doing so, 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 optimizations. Now our plant is even more efficient, more flexible, and even more digitized 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 standardized, 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 realized 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 percent, robots perform the majority of standardized processes. Automated surface inspection (ASI) assists with quality assurance. The energy-efficient building complies with the KfW 40 EE standard[i] and uses a photovoltaic system to generate its own electricity.

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 percent 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-story 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-story 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 percent of supply tasks in the future. A digital logistics control station manages all processes centrally, ensuring transparency and data-driven optimization.

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 center 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.

BMW Group in the United States

BMW Group began operations in the U.S. over 50 years ago. In addition to the sales, marketing, and distribution of BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad vehicles, BMW Group’s business in the U.S. spans 30 locations in 12 states including BMW Group Financial Services, BMW Manufacturing, Designworks, BMW Technology Office USA, and BMW i Ventures. The company’s U.S. plant in South Carolina is the largest single BMW production facility in the world and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented by a nationwide network of 355 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. Taken together, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. provide and support over 120,000 jobs and contribute more than $43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually. For more information about BMW Group’s business and products in the U.S., please visit: PressClub USA.

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• IONNA celebrates milestone achievement of over 100 sites live this week
• IONNA launches first automaker discount program with General Motors
• Top utilities go above and beyond to help build the IONNA network

DURHAM, NC, March 17 - IONNA, the EV Charging joint venture born of eight leading automakers, marks a milestone achievement this quarter as we celebrate our second anniversary. In just 24 months, IONNA has built a charging network fit for a road trip, live, growing, and serving drivers nationwide.

Interconnection at IONNA Speed

The phrase ‘it takes a village’ has never rung truer than in developing the IONNA network. Utilities across the country have played an integral role in bringing IONNA Rechargeries online. Alongside organizations such as EPRI and EEI, these companies deployed creative solutions and unprecedented efficiencies to bring our high-powered EV Charging stations online in 2025.

Among them, ten utilities went above and beyond to energize multiple locations in under one year. A further 33 utilities brought a single Rechargery online in their respective service areas.

We hit the ground running in 2026, energizing 212 bays with over 10 utilities, including PG&E, PSE&G, and NV Energy bringing our total count to nearly 1000 bays live across the country.

A new era of IONNA value

In 2025, IONNA took a page out of our founding automakers’ playbook and made a simple, driver‑first move: Friends & Family pricing for everyone. In honor of our second anniversary, we’re doubling down, delivering even greater value to the drivers who helped build IONNA from day one.

Subject to each IONNA founding automaker’s launch, drivers will begin unlocking a full suite of benefits designed around real-world driving needs. These include everyday base discounts with no subscription required, plus optional layers for those who want more: complimentary new‑vehicle charging credits, OEM subscriptions, loyalty rewards, and pre‑paid discounted cards. All designed to keep charging simple, transparent, and undeniably worth it.

Built to reward the drivers who are shaping the network, these programs are simple, flexible, and built for the long haul.

• BMW: https://www.ionna.com/partner/bmw/
• General Motors: https://www.ionna.com/partner/general-motors/
• Honda: https://www.ionna.com/partner/honda/
• Hyundai: https://www.ionna.com/partner/hyundai/
• Kia: https://www.ionna.com/partner/kia/
• Mercedes-Benz: https://www.ionna.com/partner/mercedes-benz/
• Stellantis: https://www.ionna.com/partner/stellantis/
• Toyota: https://www.ionna.com/partner/toyota/

Celebrating Two Years – and a lifetime ahead

With two years behind us, IONNA’s momentum is accelerating — and the numbers tell a powerful story. More than 4,700 bays are now contracted nationwide, with nearly 1,500 in construction or beyond. Across the country, drivers are experiencing over 100 different live locations, including three, brand-new, full-scale Rechargeries in Forest Park and West Point, GA, as well as Limon, CO. A new product offering, currently in construction in Dallas, TX, will launch in Q2 with our second automated grab & go convenience store using Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology.

To mark IONNA’s Second Anniversary, IONNA advocates and local EV drivers came together for an unprecedented day of utilization, dispensing more than 100 MWh across the network. More than 25 locations played host to anniversary events on Saturday, February 7, and the turnout got us thinking. Moments like these reinforce what we’ve long believed: the secret of the EV movement is the community built through shared e-mobility experiences. Turning that insight into action, every new IONNA location will open this year at $0.20/kWh for the first week — an open invitation for drivers to experience the IONNA difference firsthand.

The IONNA Merch Store: road-tested keepsakes, made to travel

The IONNA brand has always centered around you, the open road, and the little moments that turn a routine drive into an experience. We believe those experiences deserve a memento.

From hats, stickers, and water flasks to pullovers, layers, and everyday essentials, the IONNA Merch Store reflects the best American road trips: practical, a little nostalgic, and undeniably cool. As convenient as our charging network, IONNA gear is ready to ship — so the only thing you need to plan is your next stop.

Now available for purchase — Shop the collection at shop.ionna.com

About IONNA
IONNA is a joint venture founded by eight of the world's biggest automakers, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Toyota. Purpose-built to lead, innovate, create, and drive forward a redefinition of charging as an end-to-end integrated customer experience. Delivering this mission by developing and deploying a trailblazing nationwide network of charging stations with cutting-edge technology, retail integration, amenities, and unparalleled customer service. Enabling urban and long-distance EV mobility for all with over 30,000 ultra-fast-and-reliable charging points by 2030. IONNA will provide the coverage drivers need, the reliability they deserve, and the amenities they crave.

For more information, please visit https://ionna.com  

Media Contact: media@ionna.com 

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.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – September 30, 2025 – MINI USA announces the official launch of the MINI ChargeForward program, a smart charging initiative designed to help customers earn financial incentives and reduce carbon emission with the optimizing of charging times. This launch follows the successful implementation of the ChargeForward program for BMW USA, which has now reached a milestone of more than 10,000 enrollments nationwide.

The ChargeForward program in conjunction with local utility partners is now available to owners of eligible MINI electrified models, including:

• 2025 and newer MINI Countryman SE ALL4 (U25)
• 2020–2024 MINI Cooper SE Hardtop 2 Door (F56)
• 2017-2024 Previous generation MINI Countryman PHEV (F60)

The current utility partners that are part of the collaboration include:

• XCEL Energy
• PSEG Long Islang
• Eversource
• PSE
• DTE
• SMUD

Additionally, by participating in the national carbon dividend program, MINI owners can smart-charge their vehicles at optimum times when carbon emissions are lowest on their local energy grid, helping to balance the grid and support renewable energy. Customers earn incentives for shifting their charging to these optimal times, with incentives paid out based on their participation and the overall carbon reductions achieved.

How It Works

ChargeForward leverages advanced technology to determine the best times to charge, using customer-set departure times, and utility and grid carbon signals. The program is fully integrated into the MINI App, allowing customers to manage their smart charging and incentives in one place. No additional hardware is required – customers just enroll, plug in, and let ChargeForward optimize their charging schedule.

Key customer benefits include:

• Financial Incentives: Customers earn different rewards for smart charging by enrolling in the local Utility and National Carbon Dividend program.
• Convenience: Charging schedules are automatically sent to the customer’s vehicle, ensuring it’s ready when needed.
• Environmental Impact: Customers reduce their carbon footprint by charging when emissions are lowest.

“At MINI, we believe driving electric should be as fun as it is sustainable,” said Vikash Joshi, Product Manager, MINI USA. “With MINI ChargeForward, our customers not only enjoy the convenience of smart charging but also play an active role in contributing to a cleaner and more efficient grid. This initiative is another example of how MINI is blending innovation, responsibility, and a sense of joy in every drive.”

The launch of MINI ChargeForward demonstrates BMW Group’s ongoing commitment to responsibility, innovation, and the continued adoption of electric vehicles. By expanding this smart charging technology to MINI customers, BMW Group continues to lead in providing solutions that benefit both drivers and the community.

To learn more about MINI ChargeForward, eligible models, and how to enroll, visit miniusa.com/chargeforward.

About MINI in the US

MINI is an independent brand of the BMW Group. In the United States, MINI USA operates as a business unit of BMW of North America, LLC, located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey and includes the marketing and sales organizations for the MINI brand. The authorized MINI USA dealer organization is represented by a network of 105 MINI full passenger car sales and service dealers located throughout the US. MINI USA began selling vehicles in the U.S. in 2002 with the introduction of the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S Hardtops. Since then, the MINI Brand in the U.S. has grown to encompass a model range of five unique vehicles.

Journalist notes: Media information about MINI and its products is available to journalists on-line at www.miniusanews.com.

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• For the first time at BMW: five drivetrain variants in one vehicle.
• BMW’s technology-open approach is a strategic success factor.
• HyMoS initiative to promote development of local hydrogen ecosystems.

New York, NY/Woodcliff Lake, NJ – September 21, 2025… Today, BMW announced it will produce a new vehicle with five different drivetrain technologies. The new BMW X5 will be the first model to offer customers a choice of battery electric, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, diesel (in markets outside the US), and hydrogen fuel cell technology. In addition, the HyMoS (Hydrogen Mobility at Scale) initiative is designed to promote the development of hydrogen ecosystems and refueling stations in metropolitan areas and aims for an initial pilot implementation in Germany.

“By launching the new BMW X5 with a choice of five drivetrain variants, we are once again demonstrating our leading position as a technology pioneer,” says Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development at an BMW event in New York. “Hydrogen has an essential part to play in global decarbonization, which is why we are committed to driving the technology forward.”

Technology-open approach is a strategic success factor.

Product diversity continues to be a key success factor for BMW. A wide-ranging portfolio of drivetrains – encompassing internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, battery electric drive systems and, starting with the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen in 2028, hydrogen fuel cell technology – lays the foundations for successfully meeting the varying demands and needs of customers worldwide both now and in the future.

Flexible manufacturing structures and high levels of integration expertise enable this array of drivetrain technologies to be implemented efficiently in the new BMW X5 range in terms of development, purchasing, and production. This means the BMW model line-up will include two types of electric drivetrain (battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell) from 2028, underlining the rigorous application of the brand’s technology-open approach.

The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen.

Following successful testing of the pilot fleet worldwide, the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen will enter the market as the brand’s first-ever series-produced hydrogen-powered model. “The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen will be a true BMW – pioneering in its class and delivering the BMW-typical driving pleasure,” says Michael Rath, Vice President Hydrogen Vehicles BMW Group.

The drive technology is based on the third-generation fuel cell system that BMW is developing in collaboration with the Toyota Motor Corporation. This technological advancement paves the way for a system with a more compact design that is also more powerful and efficient, thereby increasing range and output while reducing energy consumption.

Benefits of hydrogen-powered technology.

Hydrogen is recognized as a promising future energy source for global decarbonization. It acts as an effective storage medium for renewable energy sources, helping to balance supply and demand and enabling a more stable and reliable integration of renewables into the energy grid. Hydrogen is the missing piece for completing the electric mobility puzzle where battery electric

vehicles are not the optimal solution.

HyMoS initiative: alliance for strengthening the hydrogen infrastructure.

As well as developing the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen, BMW is also actively involved in efforts to expand the hydrogen refueling network. The HyMoS (Hydrogen Mobility at Scale) initiative was established to support hydrogen ecosystems for mobility in cooperation with industry and institutional partners. The aim of this initiative is to increase the economic viability of hydrogen mobility ecosystems by pooling the demand for all types of vehicles, including trucks, buses, and passenger cars. This will help to reach an optimal distribution and usage of hydrogen stations. The initiative supports existing hydrogen ecosystem projects in achieving their full potential by sharing experiences across projects and providing ground support of its industry partners. A pilot phase started with the support of existing ecosystems in Germany and France to gather experiences for deployment to further metropolitan areas and a potential later expansion to other countries.

BMW Group in the United States

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles and motorcycles in the U.S. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.

Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled over 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.

The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists online at www.bmwusanews.com , www.miniusanews.com, and at www.press.bmwna.com

#      #      #

Woodcliff Lake, NJ/Steyr (Austria) – August 1, 2025… BMW Group Plant Steyr today began series production of the e-motor 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 motor, Plant Steyr is central to the Neue Klasse and the continued development of our global production network.” The electric motor for the sixth generation of BMW eDrive (Gen6) is the first fully-electric drivetrain to be produced at the Steyr location in Austria. From there, it will be shipped throughout the production network, providing the drivetrain for the Neue Klasse. “Three years ago, we announced that we would build this electric motor 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 center of drivetrain expertise 

Between the project launch in 2022 and 2030, BMW is investing over a 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 drivetrains. 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 drivetrains make the engine plant the ideal facility to produce the Gen6 electric motors. The site will continue to manufacture diesel and gasoline 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 motor 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 drivetrain expertise – both for combustion engines and electromobility.”

Powertrain components produced in Steyr, aluminum housings from Landshut 

Rotor, stator, transmission and power converter – all core components of the innovative, highly integrated e-drive – will be manufactured at Plant Steyr. The housing for the electric motor will be cast at Plant Landshut's aluminum foundry and further processed in Steyr. The power converter will be produced in a new in-house clean-room environment, marking the Austrian engine manufacturer’s entry into the field of electrical motorering. 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 drivetrain 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. The modular approach keeps production, supply networks and procurement highly flexible.

Comprehensive improvements to electric motor 

The electric motor has undergone significant further development for Gen6: The rotor, stator and power converter have all been holistically designed for the Gen6 technology’s new 800-volt architecture, maximizing the performance capabilities and the efficiency of the drive system. Improvements in geometry and cooling, along with reduced friction, optimize the two-stage spur gearbox. Customer-friendly acoustics have also been further refined. In the e-drive's electric “brain” – the power converter – 800-volt technology and silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor technology are now being used to boost efficiency. Fully integrated into the electric motor housing, the power converter converts direct current (DC) from the high-voltage battery into alternating current (AC) for the electric motor. 

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 one of the future models of the Neue Klasse with a Gen5 xDrive model shows the improvements in the electric motor: “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, the first model of the Neue Klasse.”

BMW Group in America

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles and motorcycles in the U.S. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.

Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled over 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.

The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

Journalists note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists online at www.bmwusanews.com , www.miniusanews.com, and at www.press.bmwna.com

#      #      #

Mountain View, CA – July 23, 2025… BMW i Ventures today announced a co-lead investment in Estes Energy Solutions, Inc., a California-based materials and manufacturing innovator. The $11 million seed round was co-led with Fortescue Ventures with participation from New Systems Ventures, and early investor DCVC. With $20 million raised to date, this latest capital will help Estes complete development of its chemistry-agnostic battery pack platform and establish domestic manufacturing capacity.

BMW i Ventures' investment underscores its commitment to supporting disruptive technologies that enable the future of electrification. Estes is charting a new path to drive further improvements at the pack level—one focused on novel materials, advanced manufacturing processes, and architectural optimizations which unlock a new paradigm of performance and economics for high voltage battery packs in the U.S. electrification market.

Estes’ modular platform addresses cost-sensitive applications with an LFP-powered variant, and mass-sensitive applications with a nickel-powered variant. Both systems are suitable for heavy-use applications and are seamlessly interchangeable with one another, offering OEMs the ability to serve broad markets from a single integration effort.

“What makes Estes different isn’t just the unique technology—it’s the people.” said Baris Guzel, Partner at BMW i Ventures. “This is a team that’s been in the trenches, building rugged, high-density battery systems with real-world safety and scale in mind. It’s that rare blend of deep engineering chops, operator mindset, and execution urgency. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with them.”

Estes is seeing strong interest from commercial partners and OEMs across multiple sectors. The pilot manufacturing line will enable Estes to begin fulfilling these strategic opportunities while fortifying the U.S.-based battery supply chain aligned with national priorities.

“We’re experiencing a broadening of demand across new electrification markets. From defense and aviation to marine, rail, and off-highway sectors, the need for the next generation of battery systems is accelerating,” said Dustin Grace, CEO of Estes. “This funding propels us towards serving these markets at the level of performance, economics, and domestic resilience necessary for sustainable growth.”

Estes will deploy this new capital to expand its development team, build-out pilot manufacturing capability, and begin deploying systems to early customers in Q4 2025.

# # #

About BMW i Ventures.

BMW i Ventures is the independent venture capital firm of BMW Group. From offices in Silicon Valley and Munich, BMW i Ventures invests in early to growth-stage companies defining the future of automotive, sustainability, manufacturing, and supply chain. Since starting in 2011, the firm has $800M under management and has invested in over 75 startups, including Bcomp, Boston Metal, CelLink, ChargePoint, GaN Systems, Motorway, Tekion, and Xometry. For more information: https://www.bmwiventures.com.

About Estes Energy Solutions.
Estes develops and manufactures exceptional zero-emission power systems that unlock true scale and performance for the electrification of commercial and industrial markets. Estes’ charter is to accelerate access to electrification by enabling standardized powertrain solutions that outperform diesel in both cost and performance—for both high-volume established OEMs and industry newcomers alike. Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Estes is committed to reshoring the complete battery value chain and enabling the inevitable transition from diesel to electric across North America. Learn more atwww.estes.energy.

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Hicksville, NY – July 22, 2025… ChargeScape, a joint venture between BMW, Honda, Ford, and Nissan, today announced a partnership with PSEG Long Island to enroll electric vehicles (EVs) in the utility’s Peak Load Reduction program, a first in the nine-year history of the utility’s peak load reduction programs. Designed to alleviate strain on the power grid during summer months, the initiative will leverage ChargeScape’s AI-powered technology platform and aims to intelligently integrate more than 4,000 BMW EV drivers and 2,200 Ford EV drivers into the power grid. Participating customers will receive financial incentives for helping to support grid stability and community resilience through optimized EV charging.

The Peak Load Reduction program integrates EVs into the power grid using ChargeScape’s proprietary software algorithm, EV AI™. The software receives real-time data from PSEG Long Island to determine the optimal timing, duration, and intensity of EV charging for enrolled customers, ensuring that EV electricity demand does not exceed what the power grid can support at a certain time or location.

"We are excited to join forces with PSEG Long Island in this important initiative," said Alexander Schleicher, Head of E-mobility at BMW of North America. "This program not only empowers our customers to play a vital role in energy conservation but also reinforces our commitment to sustainable mobility and community support."

"Enabling our customers to enjoy the benefits from utilities’ electric vehicle charging programs is part of the core value of EV adoption and ownership," said Dave McCreadie, Director, EV Grid Integration and Energy Services, Ford Motor Company. "Ford believes that ChargeScape will provide utilities like PSEG the best tool to help them manage their grid as EV adoption accelerates."

"The Peak Load Reduction program is an excellent example of collaboration among automakers and power utilities to help keep the lights on while saving EV drivers money,” said Joseph Vellone, CEO of ChargeScape. “ChargeScape is thrilled to provide BMW and Ford customers in Long Island with the opportunity to reduce their charging costs and contribute to their community.”

“We are pleased that these automakers recognize the importance of the Peak Load Reduction program,” said Michael Voltz, PSEG Long Island’s Director of Energy Efficiency and Renewables. “The program not only saves for those that participate but also reduces the amount of overall energy being used, which reduces the amount of electricity needed to be purchased for the following summer period. That translates into future savings for all customers.”

For more information about the Peak Load Reduction program and how to participate, please visit https://www.psegliny.com/saveenergyandmoney/GreenEnergy/PeakLoad/CSRP.

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BMW Group in the United States.

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles in the U.S. BMW Motorrad was brought into the fold in 1980. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.

Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled nearly 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.

The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 144 BMW motorcycle retailers, 105 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

# # #

Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com www.miniusanews.com and www.press.bmwna.com

• Innovation, range, and attainability remain keys to accelerating EV adoption

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – June 10, 2025… A new nationally representative survey conducted by Big Village and commissioned by the BMW Group in the U.S. reveals that while barriers like cost and infrastructure persist, expectations around EV performance and usability are evolving. The findings highlight growing consumer openness to electrification and emerging powertrain technologies, while also underscoring the need for continued innovation, education and investment across the EV ecosystem.

According to the survey, 92% of Americans believe continued innovation in EV technology is important, with 30% of those respondents calling it “very important.” Supporting this, over 30% of consumers ranked a reputation for innovation as the top priority when considering an EV brand—underscoring that technological leadership remains central to driving adoption.

That openness to innovation extends beyond battery-electric vehicles. The survey found that 58% of Americans are open to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, including 14% who are “very open” and 44% who are “open”. While awareness of hydrogen fuel cell technology and availability of necessary infrastructure for hydrogen still trails behind battery electric vehicles, this level of interest points to growing consumer curiosity and a clear opportunity for education and investment as infrastructure and availability improve.

Other Key Findings Include:

• EVs Going Mainstream: The perception of EVs as niche is fading. In 2025, 62% of Americans consider EV buyers “early adopters,” dropping from 5% from 2023.
• Affordability Still a Hurdle: Among future EV buyers, 40% cite cost as the main reason they haven’t purchased one yet.
• Strong Interest in Hybrids and Plug-in Hybrids: 66% of respondents say they would consider a hybrid or plug-in hybrid before purchasing a battery-electric vehicle.
• Evolving Range Expectations: 75% say 75 miles of daily range is sufficient, with 50 miles being the most common preference (29%)—indicating that consumers are increasingly aligning expectations with practical daily driving needs rather than aiming for maximum range.
• Adoption Outlook: 55% of consumers expect to purchase an EV in the future, with nearly one in five planning to do so in the next 3–5 years.
• Charging Knowledge Improving: 47% know where the nearest public charging station is, up from 40% in 2024.

“The Ultimate Driving Machine’ tagline is a brand promise that applies to every BMW – whether it is one of our highly efficient internal combustion vehicles or a fully electric BEV – and it goes beyond driving performance to include everything from range and charging speed to quality, fit and finish,” said Dr. Andreas Meyer, Vice President, BMW Product Management Americas. “As more consumers make the switch and realize that there is no compromise to doing so, it will become even more clear that electric vehicles are the future for many customers.”

“MINI’s electric future is rooted in making sustainable driving more accessible and fun,” added Mike Peyton, Vice President MINI of the Americas. “As the survey shows, people want options that fit their lifestyles without compromise—and MINI is uniquely positioned to deliver EVs that combine everyday usability with iconic design and personality.”

BMW Group Commitment to Electrified Mobility in the U.S.

BMW offers eight electrified models in the U.S., including four fully electric (BMW i4, i5, iX, and i7) and four plug-in hybrid models (BMW X5 xDrive50e, BMW 550e Series, BMW 750e, and XM). Next year, the company will begin assembling electric vehicles at its plant in South Carolina. By the end of the decade, at least six electric models will be assembled in the U.S. Globally, BMW recently announced the production milestone of 3 million electrified vehicles— underscoring its leadership in electric mobility.

BMW’s next generation “Neue Klasse” electric vehicles will begin arriving in the U.S. next year, starting with the BMW iX3. These new vehicles will feature BMW Group’s sixth-generation battery technology, which is engineered to deliver greater energy density, faster charging and improved sustainability across the company’s next wave of EVs. This next-gen platform underpins BMW’s ability to deliver dynamic driving performance with extended range while reducing emissions throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

The release of these insights also follows the recent debut of the all-new 2025 MINI Countryman SE ALL4, the most powerful and versatile MINI EV yet, marking a pivotal moment in the MINI brand’s electrified offering to American consumers. As an independent brand within BMW Group, MINI continues to build on its legacy of innovation, efficiency and creative use of space to expand its electrified offerings with distinct personality and premium design.

BMW and MINI are also advancing a holistic approach to EV adoption through strategic infrastructure investments and digital innovation. This includes IONNA, a joint venture with seven other major OEMs to build one of North America's largest high-powered charging networks; Plug & Charge capabilities that simplify the EV charging experience; and Chargescape, a collaborative effort to enhance energy management at home and across the grid.

Survey Methodology.
The General Population survey was conducted among a sample of 1,007 adults 18 years of age and older on behalf of BMW Group. The online omnibus study was conducted from May 7 - 9, 2025. Portions of this survey were previously conducted in 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

BMW Group in the United States.

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles in the U.S. BMW Motorrad was brought into the fold in 1980. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.

Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled nearly 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.

The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 144 BMW motorcycle retailers, 105 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

  # # #

Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com   www.miniusanews.com  and www.press.bmwna.com  

• Innovation, range, and attainability remain keys to accelerating EV adoption

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – June 10, 2025… A new nationally representative survey conducted by Big Village and commissioned by the BMW Group in the U.S. reveals that while barriers like cost and infrastructure persist, expectations around EV performance and usability are evolving. The findings highlight growing consumer openness to electrification and emerging powertrain technologies, while also underscoring the need for continued innovation, education and investment across the EV ecosystem.

According to the survey, 92% of Americans believe continued innovation in EV technology is important, with 30% of those respondents calling it “very important.” Supporting this, over 30% of consumers ranked a reputation for innovation as the top priority when considering an EV brand—underscoring that technological leadership remains central to driving adoption.

That openness to innovation extends beyond battery-electric vehicles. The survey found that 58% of Americans are open to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, including 14% who are “very open” and 44% who are “open”. While awareness of hydrogen fuel cell technology and availability of necessary infrastructure for hydrogen still trails behind battery electric vehicles, this level of interest points to growing consumer curiosity and a clear opportunity for education and investment as infrastructure and availability improve.

Other Key Findings Include:

• EVs Going Mainstream: The perception of EVs as niche is fading. In 2025, 62% of Americans consider EV buyers “early adopters,” dropping from 5% from 2023.
• Affordability Still a Hurdle: Among future EV buyers, 40% cite cost as the main reason they haven’t purchased one yet.
• Strong Interest in Hybrids and Plug-in Hybrids: 66% of respondents say they would consider a hybrid or plug-in hybrid before purchasing a battery-electric vehicle.
• Evolving Range Expectations: 75% say 75 miles of daily range is sufficient, with 50 miles being the most common preference (29%)—indicating that consumers are increasingly aligning expectations with practical daily driving needs rather than aiming for maximum range.
• Adoption Outlook: 55% of consumers expect to purchase an EV in the future, with nearly one in five planning to do so in the next 3–5 years.
• Charging Knowledge Improving: 47% know where the nearest public charging station is, up from 40% in 2024.

“The Ultimate Driving Machine’ tagline is a brand promise that applies to every BMW – whether it is one of our highly efficient internal combustion vehicles or a fully electric BEV – and it goes beyond driving performance to include everything from range and charging speed to quality, fit and finish,” said Dr. Andreas Meyer, Vice President, BMW Product Management Americas. “As more consumers make the switch and realize that there is no compromise to doing so, it will become even more clear that electric vehicles are the future for many customers.”

“MINI’s electric future is rooted in making sustainable driving more accessible and fun,” added Mike Peyton, Vice President MINI of the Americas. “As the survey shows, people want options that fit their lifestyles without compromise—and MINI is uniquely positioned to deliver EVs that combine everyday usability with iconic design and personality.”

BMW Group Commitment to Electrified Mobility in the U.S.

BMW offers eight electrified models in the U.S., including four fully electric (BMW i4, i5, iX, and i7) and four plug-in hybrid models (BMW X5 xDrive50e, BMW 550e Series, BMW 750e, and XM). Next year, the company will begin assembling electric vehicles at its plant in South Carolina. By the end of the decade, at least six electric models will be assembled in the U.S. Globally, BMW recently announced the production milestone of 3 million electrified vehicles— underscoring its leadership in electric mobility.

BMW’s next generation “Neue Klasse” electric vehicles will begin arriving in the U.S. next year, starting with the BMW iX3. These new vehicles will feature BMW Group’s sixth-generation battery technology, which is engineered to deliver greater energy density, faster charging and improved sustainability across the company’s next wave of EVs. This next-gen platform underpins BMW’s ability to deliver dynamic driving performance with extended range while reducing emissions throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

The release of these insights also follows the recent debut of the all-new 2025 MINI Countryman SE ALL4, the most powerful and versatile MINI EV yet, marking a pivotal moment in the MINI brand’s electrified offering to American consumers. As an independent brand within BMW Group, MINI continues to build on its legacy of innovation, efficiency and creative use of space to expand its electrified offerings with distinct personality and premium design.

BMW and MINI are also advancing a holistic approach to EV adoption through strategic infrastructure investments and digital innovation. This includes IONNA, a joint venture with seven other major OEMs to build one of North America's largest high-powered charging networks; Plug & Charge capabilities that simplify the EV charging experience; and Chargescape, a collaborative effort to enhance energy management at home and across the grid.

Survey Methodology.
The General Population survey was conducted among a sample of 1,007 adults 18 years of age and older on behalf of BMW Group. The online omnibus study was conducted from May 7 - 9, 2025. Portions of this survey were previously conducted in 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

BMW Group in the United States.

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles in the U.S. BMW Motorrad was brought into the fold in 1980. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.

Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled nearly 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.

The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 144 BMW motorcycle retailers, 105 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

  # # #

Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com   www.miniusanews.com  and www.press.bmwna.com  

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 20, 2025… 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.

# # #

BMW Group in the United States.

BMW of North America began operations 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles in the U.S. BMW Motorrad was brought into the fold in 1980. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.

Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled over 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.

The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.

Solid Power, Inc.

Solid Power is developing solid-state battery technology to enable the next generation of batteries for the fast-growing EV and other markets. Solid Power’s core technology is its electrolyte material, which Solid Power believes can enable extended driving range, longer battery life, improved safety, and lower cost compared to traditional lithium-ion. Solid Power’s business model – selling its electrolyte to cell manufacturers and licensing its cell designs and manufacturing processes – distinguishes the company from many of its competitors who plan to be commercial battery manufacturers. Ultimately, Solid Power endeavors to be a leading producer and distributor of sulfide-based solid electrolyte material for powering both EVs and other applications. For more information, visit http://www.solidpowerbattery.com/.

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• BMW Sound Design Studio develops all-new sound concept for next generation of BMWs.
• BMW Operating System X enables drive sounds tailored precisely to the driving situation at hand in Personal Mode and Sport Mode.
• Immersive spectrum of audio effects augments the holistic user experience of the new BMW iDrive.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 14, 2025… As it pulls back the curtain on a new era in 2025, fuelled by the all­electric Neue Klasse models, BMW is creating a holistic driving and user experience that breaks genuinely new ground. One of the elements of the far­reaching BMW Panoramic iDrive concept is the new HypersonX soundscape. Developed by the BMW Sound Design Studio, it comprises 43 sound signals and special driving sounds for Personal Mode and Sport Mode. The multi­dimensional 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 “color”, 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 atmosphere. In conjunction with intuitive operation, precisely adjusted light effects, and relaxing interior design, this gives those on board a fine sense of wellbeing.

A choir made up of BMW Design Studio employees brings voice – in their respective native languages – to moments of driving joy, infusing the welcome sound with an essence of empathy. 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 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, pleasant, and inviting aura to the acoustic presence of the Neue Klasse.

BMW Group in the United States.

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles and motorcycles in the U.S. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.
Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.
BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled nearly 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.
The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.
Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists online at www.bmwusanews.com , www.miniusanews.com, and at www.press.bmwna.com

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• Sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology marks a milestone in electric mobility.
• BMW Energy Master: intelligent central control unit for the fundamentally new HV battery.
• Innovative and flexible modular principle for electric drive.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – February 20, 2025… BMW 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 BMW 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.
• BMW 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 BMW an exceptional degree of flexibility.
• BMW pools together expertise from the entire electric mobility value chain in Bavaria and Austria – from development, via purchasing and production, to recycling.
• BMW 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 BMW, 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), BMW 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 BMW’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, 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: BMW 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. BMW 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 BMW. 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 BMW 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, BMW 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 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 BMW 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 BMW 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 centerd 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 center for electric drive systems and thermal management.

Production of the Energy Master at BMW 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 BMW. “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. BMW 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 BMW. It is supplied with subcomponents by a supply chain set up by BMW. 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 BMW and integrated into the supply chain for the manufacture of new batteries. This closed-loop approach increases the efficiency and resilience of BMW as part of a circular economy. BMW will follow a similar path in the USA, Mexico, and Canada up to 2026 with a separate partnership.

Innovative direct recycling at BMW 

BMW is also exploring other recycling options in the value creation process. One example of this is the direct recycling method developed in-house. BMW is working with its joint venture Encory to set up a competence center 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 centers.

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

BMW 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 BMW have also succeeded in improving the electric motor and central housing in terms of their weight and rigidity. The transmission still uses a two-stage helical design, but has been further optimized 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 BMW 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, BMW’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% for the Neue Klasse. This figure is based on a comparison with the current generation of all-electric vehicles from BMW.

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 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, BMW 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 BMW’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 BMW. The plant’s development center is also responsible for the brain at the heart of the electric motor – the inverter.

BMW Plant Landshut – a multi-talented component manufacturer

BMW Plant Landshut is BMW’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 BMW. Working closely with BMW’s Research and Innovation Center (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.

BMW Group in the United States.

BMW of North America, LLC was established 50 years ago to support the sales, marketing and distribution of BMW automobiles and motorcycles in the U.S. In 1993 BMW Group Financial Services NA, LLC was founded, and one year later BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC began assembling vehicles in South Carolina. In 2002 and 2003, BMW Group established MINI USA, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC relaunching two iconic brands and rounding out its product portfolio.
Today, the BMW Group has a nationwide corporate footprint in the U.S. which consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states. Beyond the National Sales Company and Financial Services headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and numerous other operational facilities, BMW Group in the U.S. also includes Designworks, a strategic design consultancy in Santa Monica, CA, BMW Group Technology Office USA, a technology research and development center in Silicon Valley, and BMW i Ventures, a venture capital fund, also in Silicon Valley.
BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the largest single BMW production facility in the world, and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and XM. The plant assembles more than 1,500 vehicles each day, and up to 450,000 annually. Since 1994, Plant Spartanburg has assembled nearly 7 million BMW vehicles in the U.S.
The BMW Group sales organization in the U.S. is represented through a network of 350 BMW retailers, 147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. The company’s activities provide and support over 120,000 jobs across the U.S. and contribute more than 43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually.
Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists online at www.bmwusanews.com , www.miniusanews.com, and at www.press.bmwna.com

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• Visionary technology package for the Neue Klasse celebrates world premiere at CES 2025.
• The new display and operating concept will be introduced across all new BMW models from the end of 2025, emphasizing driver focus, information distribution and ergonomics.
• New BMW Operating System X provides intelligent software basis, ensuring extensive scope for personalisation and wide spread of digital functionality.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – January 7, 2025… The BMW Group presents the driving and user experience of the future at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas. BMW is providing the first opportunity to experience the close-to-production version of the new BMW iDrive – complete with its centrepiece, BMW Panoramic Vision – at the event. The software underpinning it all is the new BMW Operating System X, which acts as the intelligence hub behind the new display and operating concept. The holistic system, with its modern, style-shaping design, will be introduced in all new BMW models from the end of 2025.
“High tech meets highly intuitive operation – a quarter of a century of pioneering work and technological leadership in operating concepts has been channelled into the new BMW Panoramic iDrive,” says Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Development. “The foundations are provided by the new BMW Operating System X. With this advance, we are giving one of the world’s best and most comprehensive infotainment systems even greater capability and once again setting the industry benchmark in multimodal interaction. Starting with the first series-produced Neue Klasse model at the end of this year, the new BMW Panoramic iDrive will form an integral part of all future BMW models.”

Four elements, one goal: consistent driver focus in characteristic BMW style.

The new BMW iDrive merges four central elements into a unique display and operating concept.

BMW Panoramic Vision – a Head-Up Display concept newly developed by BMW for projecting content reflects visible information from A-pillar to A-pillar onto a black printed surface in the lower section of the windscreen. This information is visible to all occupants. The most important driving information is projected directly into the driver's line of sight on the left-hand side of the BMW Panoramic Vision above the steering wheel. The driver can personalise the content in the central and right-hand areas of the BMW Panoramic Vision via the central display. The integration of the BMW Panoramic Vision creates a 3D effect for the driver and passengers.

• The new and optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display above the BMW Panoramic Vision now shows integrated navigation and automated driving information directly in the driver’s field of vision. The content in the BMW Panoramic Vision and BMW 3D Head-Up Display is presented in a neatly coordinated way. The level of innovation achieved by the two Head-Up display technologies is underlined by several patent applications from the BMW Group resulting from the development of these projection technologies.
• On the central display with matrix backlight technology, the familiar, updated menu structure with QuickSelect ensures optimal operation of the functions and content by touch. Operation is very easy and convenient, as the free-cut-design display is located close to the steering wheel in an ergonomically ideal position. Selected content (widgets) can be carried over to the BMW Panoramic Vision with a swipe on the central display. As many as six widgets are possible and they can be arranged as desired in the BMW Panoramic Vision.
• The new multifunction steering wheel uses BMW’s shy-tech approach, whereby the relevant buttons are illuminated to highlight available functions. The steering wheel serves as the primary physical control, and its buttons provide active haptic feedback. The buttons have a well-judged, relief-like surface, which makes them extremely easy to locate and means the driver can press them without needing to divert their gaze away from the road. The arrangement of the buttons follows the familiar principle of driver assistance functions being positioned on the left-hand side of the steering wheel and content-controlling functions on the right-hand side.

The combination of these four elements reinterprets BMW’s customary “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” approach, with which BMW sets the benchmark for driver focus and presents a unique form of intuitive, use-friendly, and ergonomically optimised operation. The BMW Panoramic iDrive always gives the driver the right information in the right place and at the right time. The system continues the approach of using an optimal combination of analogue and digital controls through the use of switches, buttons, touch and voice control. There are haptic switches for the windscreen wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selectors and window de-icers. Other functions are optimised for operation using touch/voice control or via the multifunction steering wheel, such as telephone functions, media control systems, navigation, assisted driving, personalisation of displays, selection of MyModes and much more besides.

Alongside data-driven learnings on the use of BMW Operating Systems across the global fleet of now more than 22 million connected BMW vehicles, the development phase of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive also included numerous studies conducted in the BMW Group’s usability labs, in which around 3,000 customers were involved. Every decision on the various aspects of the operating logic is therefore based on data and made in a structured manner. Here, the user experience’s extended scope for personalization has also been aligned with customer preferences and requirements.

BMW Operating System X: intelligent, versatile, fit for the future.

The new BMW Operating System X represents an update of the latest operating system, as used in many BMW models, and is a wholly in-house development from BMW. Like BMW Operating System 9, it is based on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack. It offers even greater update and upgrade capability than the predecessor system, making it both fit for the future and backwards compatible. It is ready to accommodate additional functions and will keep vehicles equipped with the new BMW Panoramic iDrive at the cutting edge of technology over a long period of time.

“The overall concept of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with Operating System X has been enabled by a large technological leap forward,” says Stephan Durach Senior Vice President Connected Company BMW Group. “It offers intuitive operation, emotionally engaging experiences and specific personalization. The new BMW iDrive with Operating System X demonstrates the potential of a software-defined vehicle.”

The expanded intelligence of BMW Operating System X makes it possible to combine the BMW Panoramic Vision, optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, central display and multifunction steering wheel with one another in such a way that physical and digital experiences merge. For example, an incoming call initially brings up a graphic on the BMW Panoramic Vision. At the same time, a symbol on the relevant steering wheel button that was not previously visible is illuminated in green, indicating the option of taking the call by pressing the button or rejecting it with a swipe on the right-hand side of the steering wheel.

When a navigation destination is entered by touch control or voice command, route guidance alerts are shown on the BMW 3D Head-Up Display and further information on roads and junctions on the BMW Panoramic Vision. A whole map overview can be shown on the central display at any time for broader-scale orientation.

The personalization of content reaches a new level with BMW Operating System X. The displays in the Panoramic Vision can be adapted to personal preferences. In addition, drivers now also have the option of choosing their own settings for driving attributes such as response and steering characteristics in the My Mode “Personal”. Moreover, pictures chosen by the user can be uploaded as backgrounds for the Central Display and the colourway of the Ambient Lighting and user interface design adjusted to their particular preferences, creating an even more personalized driving experience.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant responds in the accustomed way to the prompt “Hey BMW” or can be called up by pressing the respective button on the multifunction steering wheel. The capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are being constantly enhanced and will be taken to a whole new level for the Neue Klasse through the integration of Large Language Models (LLM). The use of this technology is focused initially on navigation, allowing the customer to give more extensive spoken commands using natural language: for example: “Take me to a charging station which is close to a food store.” At technology partner Amazon’s booth at CES 2025, visitors can get an initial impression of these capabilities using a beta version of this build of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant in a BMW X3.

As with the current infotainment systems from BMW, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can – if the driver desires – make suggestions proactively based on user behaviour. This intelligence expands further with BMW Operating System X. In relevant situations, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant highlights driver assistance systems, which are rarely used by the driver. As a kind of reminder, the system suggests activating Sport Mode on suitable routes if the driver has already activated Sport Mode independently beforehand. If the driver doesn’t respond to or ignores these proactive suggestions several times, the system learns and refrains from making suggestions from then on.

BMW Operating System X carries over the scope for integration of third-party apps from the previous infotainment generation. As things stand, the BMW ConnectedDrive Store offers more than 60 apps worldwide for BMW Operating System 9. The selection will continue to grow, e.g. with productivity apps such as video conferencing service Zoom.

Design and technology for a unique user and driving experience.

The new BMW Panoramic iDrive is scalable and will be integrated into all new BMW models – across all vehicle segments and with all drive system technologies – from the end of 2025.

The driving experience takes centre stage. The driver should feel at ease and have full control over the vehicle. This principle is reflected in the design of the new BMW Panoramic iDrive. Particular attention is paid to the details: the user interface has been designed as intuitively and adaptively as possible to ensure seamless interaction. The result is a holistic experience enhanced by a harmonious combination of sound, light, and innovative design. Every journey becomes a special moment of connection between human and vehicle.

“Technology and customer preferences are changing more quickly than ever. The design of digital experiences and sound is playing an ever more important role,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The new BMW Panoramic iDrive not only makes our vehicles smarter and more user-friendly, it also enables much more extensive personalisation, which turns every new BMW into a car that is very much the user’s own.”

Another element in the holistic experience provided by the BMW Panoramic iDrive is the new HypersonX sound experience in the Neue Klasse models. 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 BMW.

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BMW Group In America

BMW (US) Holding, Corp. is the shareholder of BMW of North America, LLC, which has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; DesignWorks/USA.Inc, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and assembles the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

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NEW YORK, NY and NASHVILLE, TN, Oct. 7, 2024 — Nissan has entered into an agreement to invest in ChargeScape, a joint venture equally owned by BMW, Ford and Honda focused on electric vehicle-grid integration. Once the transaction is complete, Nissan will become an equal 25% investor in ChargeScape and will roll out ChargeScape’s services to its EV drivers across the U.S. and Canada.

Last month, BMW, Ford and Honda announced the launch of ChargeScape, whose software wirelessly connects to electric vehicles and manages the flow of electrons in line with real-time grid conditions, temporarily reducing demand when the grid is constrained through smart charging (V1G) and even sending energy back into the power grid when needed (V2G). By providing a single platform for power utilities, automakers, and their customers, ChargeScape streamlines the complexity of electric vehicle-grid integration.

ChargeScape unlocks financial benefits for EV drivers by enabling services like managed charging and vehicle-to-grid export. When connected to ChargeScape’s platform, EV drivers who choose to do so can receive financial incentives for temporarily pausing charging during periods of high demand and will eventually be able to sell the energy stored in their vehicle’s battery back to the power grid. Doing so helps grid operators avoid dispatching expensive and often high-emission “peaker plants” when the grid is overloaded.

Nissan’s incorporation into the ChargeScape alliance is of particular significance given its sales of over 650,000 LEAF models, one of the first EVs with the capability to export power back to the grid.  Nissan is investing heavily in bidirectional charging (V2X) capabilities for its entire electric fleet, and ChargeScape is currently building virtual power plants composed of bidirectional EVs in California, Texas and other markets.

“We are delighted to welcome Nissan to the ChargeScape joint venture,” said Joseph Vellone, ChargeScape CEO. “Nissan’s decision to join us underscores their commitment to helping customers charge more cheaply and sustainably and highlights ChargeScape’s central position in the vehicle-grid integration space.”

“ChargeScape helps us more conveniently and effectively connect utilities to EV drivers, making the ownership experience more valuable for drivers by giving them incentives for participating in managed charging and vehicle-to-grid programs,” said Kent O’Hara, president of Nissan’s 4R battery business. “Joining ChargeScape helps us contribute to a nationwide reduction in CO₂ emissions by enabling utilities to use EV battery energy storage to balance peak grid demands while optimizing the use of renewable electricity sources.”

ChargeScape is a technology company that connects power utilities, automakers and electric vehicle drivers using software. From its offices in New York, ChargeScape helps stabilize electrical grids by optimizing the flow of electrons into and out of EV batteries and helps EV drivers save money on their charging through cash-back and other incentives. The company counts BMW, Ford, Honda and Nissan as investors, with additional automakers set to join in the coming months.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, please contact Chris Terry at chargescape@telemetryagency.com.

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BMW Group in America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley, and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and assembles the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 144 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 175,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Honda’s Commitment to the Environment

Honda is working toward its global goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its “Triple Action to Zero” approach, including achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, 100% utilization of renewable energy, and resource circulation, utilizing 100% sustainable materials by reprocessing products back to raw materials and reusing those materials in the creation of new products. Toward this goal, Honda will strive to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040.

To reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, Honda also is offsetting CO2 emissions from its North American manufacturing operations through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for renewable wind and solar power that seek to cover more than 60% of the electricity Honda uses in North America. Honda also promotes environmentally responsible business practices with its suppliers and retail dealer partners across North America. Learn more at https://csr.honda.com/environment/na-environmental-report/.

About Nissan

Nissan is committed to delivering innovative solutions that help drive toward a future of cleaner, safer and more inclusive mobility for all. Under The Arc, the company’s mid-term business plan, Nissan plans to launch 16 electrified models over the next three years, and a total of 34 electrified models from fiscal year 2024 to 2030.

Durham, NC (October 3, 2024) – IONNA, the charging network founded by eight of the world’s top automakers: BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Stellantis and Toyota, announced they have broken ground on the first IONNA ‘Rechargery.’

In the thriving heart of Apex, North Carolina, just a few miles from its previously announced headquarters and customer experience lab, IONNA breaks ground on its first charging site, transforming a historic district gas station into a new Rechargery. A first of many for IONNA and a first of its kind for North Carolina.

A NEW FAMILIAR EXPERIENCE, INSIDE AND OUT

This metro site is perfectly situated to serve local and traveling customers within the Triangle. Providing 10 covered parking bays, protected from the elements and accessible to both CCS and NACS, the charging ports will be capable of up to 400kW and 800+ Volts.

The site will host an indoor driver’s lounge, offering secure access to bathrooms, coffee service, food/beverage, and WIFI to relax or work while your vehicle charges. Additionally, outdoor and pet-friendly amenities will be just a few steps away.

WHAT IS OLD IS NEW AGAIN

A symbolic first, IONNA’s initial Rechargery will be in the historic district of a quintessential American town built around a railroad steam engine refill pond, which the workers called Apex. A name that lives on to this day. In keeping with the town's evolving transportation roots, and almost 100 years after one of Apex's first gas stations opened to the community, IONNA will restore the building and its land to bring the 'Apex of charging' to the “Peak of Good Living”, the town’s present-day motto.

GROWING THE LEADERSHIP TEAM

IONNA also announced the appointment of Jackie Slope as Chief Technology Officer.

Jackie comes to IONNA with over 15 years’ experience in Sports and Entertainment, where she held multiple leadership roles, spearheading customer experience at iconic properties including Crypto.com Arena and Madison Square Garden.  Jackie will oversee the strategic deployment of hardware, software and experiential technologies, building out processes to enable a frictionless customer experience.

 “I am excited to join the IONNA family,” said Jackie Slope, CTO of IONNA. “Having spent my career raising the bar around the customer experience I am excited to find ways to innovate and elevate the charging experience by serving the customer above all else in this new and exciting industry.”

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About IONNA 

IONNA is a rising joint venture founded by eight of the world’s biggest automakers, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Stellantis and Toyota. Purpose-built to lead, innovate, create, and drive forward a redefinition of charging as an end-to-end integrated customer experience. Delivering this mission by developing and deploying a trailblazing nationwide network of charging stations with cutting-edge technology, retail integration, amenities, and unparalleled customer service. Enabling urban and long-distance EV mobility for all with over 30,000 ultra-fast-and-reliable charging points by 2030. IONNA will provide the coverage drivers need, the reliability they deserve, and the amenities they crave.  

For more information, please visit https://ionna.com 

Media Contact: media@ionna.com
 

NEW YORK, Sept. 1 8, 2024 — BMW, Ford and Honda have begun operations of the new joint venture that they announced last year and have appointed the first CEO and CTO. ChargeScape is a software platform that integrates electric vehicles (EVs) into the power grid, shoring up grid stability while saving drivers money on their charging.

The announcement underscores that automakers remain committed to EVs – including plug-in hybrids – and are focused on reducing the total cost of ownership for their customers. 
As more Americans switch to EVs, cheaper fueling costs have become top-of-mind for drivers, particularly while charging at home where 80% of EV charging occurs according to U.S. Department of Energy estimates. At the same time, the nation’s power grids have come under increasing strain due to electricity demand from data centers and the intermittent nature of renewables.

To meet these needs, ChargeScape’s technology wirelessly connects to electric vehicles and, working with participating utilities, manages the flow of electrons in line with real-time grid conditions, temporarily reducing demand when the grid is constrained through smart charging (V1G) and even sending energy back into the power grid when needed (V2G). EV drivers have the potential to be rewarded financially for their flexibility and always have their vehicle charged by the time they specify.

ChargeScape builds off of the early success of these automakers’ work on smart charging through the Open Vehicle-Grid Integration Platform (OVGIP), which counts multi-state utilities such as Duke Energy, Xcel Energy and Eversource Energy as clients.

Board Names Two Key Leadership Appointments

Following the official launch of the joint venture, BMW, Ford and Honda announced the appointment of ChargeScape’s first CEO, Joseph Vellone.

Bringing 15 years of experience in the energy and climate sectors, Vellone was most recently part of the founding team at software start-up ev.energy, where he launched and grew the company’s North America business to include over a dozen utilities and 150,000 EVs.

“Joseph's leadership and track record operating cleantech start-ups is precisely what we need to make ChargeScape a success,” said current ChargeScape Board Chairman Shaun Bugbee of BMW.

Before joining ev.energy, Vellone worked as a management consultant at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he was part of the firm’s energy and environment practice. He is a graduate of Princeton University and the London School of Economics. While in high school, his student research on hydrogen fuel cells was recognized with honors from Congress and the White House.

“The U.S. has set ambitious targets for renewable energy deployment and EV adoption, and ChargeScape is here to bridge that gap between supply and demand of electricity,” said Vellone. “We want to transform EVs from a liability into an asset for the power grid and help deliver a clean transportation future for our country.”

Newly appointed ChargeScape Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Kalidindi Raju has over 15 years of experience leading high-performing technology organizations and is a recognized leader in cloud architecture, artificial intelligence, machine learning, analytics, data engineering and product development. He previously held senior leadership positions at Amazon, OATI and other technology companies.

Raju holds a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M International and a bachelor’s degree in computer science and engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela (India).

“Although the vehicle-grid integration market is expected to be highly competitive, our partnerships with the world’s largest automakers gives us a significant edge. With direct access to the vehicles, we enable utilities to optimize EV charging securely and reliably,” said Raju. "We plan to fully leverage this key advantage.”

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About ChargeScape

ChargeScape is a technology company that connects electric utilities, automakers and electric vehicle drivers using software. From its offices in New York, ChargeScape helps stabilize electrical grids by optimizing the flow of electrons into and out of EV batteries and helps EV drivers save money on their charging through cash-back and other incentives. The company counts BMW, Ford and Honda as investors, with additional automakers set to join in the coming months.

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BMW Group in America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley, and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and assembles the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 144 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 175,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Honda’s Commitment to the Environment

Honda is working toward its global goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its “Triple Action to Zero” approach, including achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, 100% utilization of renewable energy, and resource circulation, utilizing 100% sustainable materials by reprocessing products back to raw materials and reusing those materials in the creation of new products. Toward this goal, Honda will strive to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040.

To reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, Honda also is offsetting CO2 emissions from its North American manufacturing operations through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for renewable wind and solar power that seek to cover more than 60% of the electricity Honda uses in North America. Honda also promotes environmentally responsible business practices with its suppliers and retail dealer partners across North America. Learn more at https://csr.honda.com/environment/na-environmental-report/.

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Munich. BMW plans to launch its first-ever series production fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028, thereby offering customers an additional all-electric powertrain option with zero local emissions in a BMW. The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation are pooling their innovative strength and their technological capabilities to bring a new generation of fuel cell powertrain technology to the roads. Both companies share the aspiration of advancing the hydrogen economy and have extended their collaboration to push this locally zero-emission technology to the next level.

The BMW Group’s leading development expertise in electric drive technologies is once again demonstrated by its relentless efforts to advance hydrogen fuel cell technology and its embracing of a 'technology-openness' approach in order to provide customers with a range of mobility solutions for the future.

“This is a milestone in automotive history: the first-ever series production fuel cell vehicle to be offered by a global premium manufacturer. Powered by hydrogen and driven by the spirit of our cooperation, it will underscore how technological progress is shaping future mobility,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “And it will herald an era of significant demand for fuel cell electric vehicles.”

Koji Sato, President and Member of the Board of Management (Representative Director) Toyota Motor Corporation, said, “We are pleased that the collaboration between BMW and Toyota has entered a new stage. In our long history of partnership, we have confirmed that BMW and Toyota share the same passion for cars and belief in ‘technology openness’ and a ‘multi-pathway’ approach to carbon neutrality. Based on these shared values, we will deepen our collaboration in efforts such as the joint development of next-generation fuel cell systems and the expansion of infrastructure, aiming for the realization of a hydrogen society. We will accelerate our efforts together with BMW and partners across various industries to realize a future where hydrogen energy supports society."

Shared powertrain technology utilized across individual models to offer attractive FCEV options. 

The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation will jointly develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles, with the core fuel cell technology (the individual third-generation fuel cells) creating synergies for both commercial and passenger vehicle applications. The result of this collaborative effort will be utilized in individual models from both BMW and Toyota and will expand the range of FCEV options available to customers, bringing the vision of hydrogen mobility one step closer to reality. Customers can expect the BMW and Toyota FCEV models to maintain their distinct brand identities and characteristics, providing them with individual FCEV options to choose from. Realizing synergies and amalgamating the total volume of powertrain units by collaborating on development and procurement promises to drive down the costs of fuel cell technology.

BMW will launch its first hydrogen-powered production model in 2028.  

After successfully testing the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet worldwide, the BMW Group is now preparing for series production of vehicles with hydrogen drive systems in 2028 on the basis of the jointly developed next-generation powertrain technology. 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 FCEV 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).

A new level of partnership.

The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation can look back on over a decade of trusting and successful collaboration. Building on this, the companies are now extending their cooperation to accelerate innovation of next-generation fuel cell powertrain systems and pioneer this new technology.

Shared vision of advancing the hydrogen economy.

The pathway to realizing the full potential of hydrogen mobility includes its use in commercial vehicles and the establishment of a refuelling infrastructure for all mobility applications, including hydrogen-powered passenger vehicles. Recognizing the complementary nature of these technologies, the BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation are supporting the expansion of both hydrogen refuelling and battery electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Both companies are encouraging sustainable hydrogen supply by creating demand, working closely with companies that are building low-carbon hydrogen production, distribution, and refuelling facilities.

The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are advocating the creation of a conducive framework by governments and investors to facilitate the early-stage penetration of hydrogen mobility and ensure its economic viability. By promoting the corresponding infrastructure, they aim to establish the FCEV market as an additional pillar alongside other powertrain technologies. Furthermore, the companies are seeking regional or local projects to further drive the development of hydrogen infrastructure through collaborative initiatives.

Benefits of hydrogen-powered technology.

Hydrogen is recognized as a promising future energy carrier for global decarbonization. It acts as an effective storage medium for renewable energy sources, helping to balance supply and demand and enabling a more stable and reliable integration of renewables into the energy grid. Hydrogen is the missing piece for completing the electric mobility puzzle where battery electric drive systems are not an optimal solution.

• BMW Charging, Powered by Shell Recharge Solutions, Enables Streamlined Charging Experience for BMW EV Drivers. 
• Through a New Agreement with Shell Recharge Solutions, BMW Electric Vehicle Drivers Can Find, Access, and Pay for Charging at More Than 100,000 Public Chargers Through the My BMW App.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – March 13, 2024… BMW of North America announced today the addition of Shell Recharge Solutions as a second eMobility provider, giving customers easy access to Shell Recharge, ChargePoint, EVgo, EVConnect, and Blink charging stations via the My BMW App. BMW drivers can now find, access, and charge at all affiliated locations via their My BMW app, with payments for all five providers automatically processed via the app. With this new agreement, BMW Charging now offers electric vehicle drivers easy and convenient access to one of the largest charging networks in North America with over 100,000 public charging points in the U.S. and Canada.

Shell Recharge Solutions’ virtual Mobility Service Provider (vMSP) not only streamlines the charging experience for BMW customers, but also eliminates the need to create separate accounts, and use separate apps, for each individual charging provider. Through the My BMW app, customers can now enjoy the benefits of both complimentary charging with Electrify America, and the networks of multiple providers across North America with Shell Recharge Solutions.

“Charging is an important part of creating a positive customer experience for the owners of electric vehicles,” said Shaun Bugbee, Executive Vice President, Operations, BMW of North America. “As a premium automaker, BMW’s goal is to also create a premium ownership experience for our customers, which means making the charging process as simple and convenient as possible.”

Shell Recharge is a pay-as-you-go program, so signing up is easy; customers simply need to add a credit card to their account.  Charging at all locations is easy as well; park in front of the charging station, open the My BMW app, click ‘Charge Here’, and all relevant information for the specific charging station will be displayed, including ratings, reviews, and photos provided by Plug Share.

BMW’s current electric vehicle lineup includes the BMW i4 Gran Coupe, BMW i5 Sedan, and BMW i7 Sedan, as well as the BMW iX Sports Activity Vehicle.  The company also offers five plug-in hybrid electric models including the BMW 330e Sedan, BMW 550e Sedan, BMW 750e Sedan, BMW X5 xDrive50e Sports Activity Vehicle and the BMW XM. 

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BMW Group in America       

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and assembles the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,145 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

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• Joint venture by seven major automakers receives approval from regulatory agencies.
• IONNA plans to deploy a minimum of 30,000 chargers with the first charging stations expected to open in the U.S. in 2024, followed by Canada.
• Seth Cutler, formerly of EV Connect, appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 1.

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 7, 2024 – Announced in July 2023, IONNA, the joint venture to build a high-powered EV charging network across North America, has received approval from regulatory authorities, and is now officially commencing operations. IONNA is a joint venture of seven of the world's foremost automakers: BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis. With Seth Cutler, newly appointed as the Chief Executive Officer, IONNA targets to become one of the most accessible and reliable high-powered charging networks in North America with plans to deploy at least 30,000 chargers.

Seth Cutler to lead IONNA.

Cutler brings a wealth of experience in electric mobility and charging to shape the joint venture right from the start. In his role as Senior Vice President of Technical Operations at EV Connect, Cutler drastically expanded the network of charging station manufacturers. Most recently serving as the President and Chief Operations Officer, he started several initiatives to transform the company from a ‘start-up’ to a ‘scale-up’ phase. Before joining EV Connect, Cutler took the lead in engineering, orchestrating the development and implementation of a high-powered charging network as Chief Engineer in the early phase of Electrify America. He started his career at General Electric (GE), where his versatile roles included that of General Manager of EV infrastructure. In this capacity, he focused on the development, manufacturing, and deployment of charging stations, contributing significantly to GE's footprint in the electric mobility sector.

“I am honored to lead IONNA and work alongside these esteemed automakers in shaping the future of electric mobility. Our shared commitment to creating an extensive, high-powered charging network reflects our dedication to revolutionizing the entire EV charging experience and helping to drive widespread EV adoption” said Seth Cutler, CEO IONNA.

Elevating the Customer Experience.

IONNA’s charging network will be accessible to all electric vehicles with NACS or CCS connectors and aims to provide a seamless, vehicle-integrated, best-in-class charging experience. This will be realized by providing various amenities, such as restrooms, food service, and retail operations nearby or within the same complex, digital integration and appealing locations. Customers can expect convenient locations that will come with canopies wherever possible to even further focus on unprecedented customer comfort and charging ease. The network's functions and services will facilitate seamless integration with participating automakers' in-vehicle and in-app experiences, encompassing reservations, intelligent route planning and navigation, payment applications, transparent energy management, and additional features.

IONNA’s charging stations are intended to be powered by renewable energy, and backed by the combined quality, reliability, and resources of the world's leading automakers. IONNA targets to establish a minimum of 30,000 high-powered charging stations strategically positioned throughout North America. The joint venture anticipates opening its first charging stations in the United States in 2024, with plans for expansion into Canada at a later stage. Each site will feature multiple high-powered chargers to facilitate long-distance journeys, aligning with the sustainability strategies of all seven automakers.

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About IONNA

IONNA LLC is a limited liability company formed by BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis. By the close of this decade, IONNA aims to become a leading force in providing convenient, accessible, and reliable North American fast-charging infrastructure to significantly enhance the appeal of zero-emission driving for millions of customers.

Press Contact:

IONNA: Christoph Karkoszka (christoph@ionna.com)
www.ionna.com

# #  #

• All BMW North America EV and PHEV customers in the contiguous 48 states are now eligible to earn cash incentives for optimizing their charging
• Program could enable significant carbon emission reductions from electric vehicle charging

Woodcliff Lake, NJ. - November 14, 2023… Today, BMW of North America announced the national expansion of its smart charging service, ChargeForward, in conjunction with the launch of the first all-electric BMW 5 Series, the BMW i5. With enrollment kicking off today, all BMW battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) model years 2018 and up will be eligible to enroll in ChargeForward throughout the lower 48 states. The innovative smart charging feature provides customers with incentives for aligning their vehicle charging with times when renewable energy is highest on the grid.

While ChargeForward is already available in some states across the U.S. through partnerships with various utility providers, it will now be accessible to all electrified vehicle customers by utilizing carbon data specific to the electric grid in each region. This allows BMW drivers to reduce their carbon footprint and support fluctuations in the electric grid, all while earning cash incentives. The program is completely free and digital, utilizing the Connected Drive system to communicate to the vehicle the best times to charge. Drivers can enroll online and do not need to install any hardware to participate.

“The national expansion of BMW ChargeForward is yet another step in our endeavor to provide customers with the best possible charging experience,” said Thomas Ruemenapp, Vice President, Engineering, BMW of North America, LLC. “Empowering our drivers to play an active role in reducing carbon emissions and increasing their renewable energy usage is an innovative way to use vehicle charging to further the environmental benefits of electric vehicles.”  

This expansion marks the next phase in the company’s ChargeForward program, which leads the sector in testing groundbreaking ways to use EV’s as a flexible grid resource.

As another example of this effort, earlier this year BMW announced plans for the joint venture ChargeScape together with two additional automakers. This joint venture will support BMW’s ChargeForward program and connect to even more utilities as a single point of contact. This will allow the program to scale-up and integrate with the respective utilities.

BMW ChargeForward Customer Incentives: Here’s How it Works

ChargeForward intelligently sets a schedule that charges the vehicle during optimal times of the day. Charging is aligned to the times with the lowest carbon intensity in a customer’s city or region. Drivers earn incentives when they agree to shift their EV charging to times when renewable energy is plentiful and away from times when electricity is in high demand.  The vehicle will complete its charging prior to a set departure time, ensuring that customers can meet all their driving needs for the day ahead.

There are two types of incentives customers can earn:

• Cash incentives, by participating in up to 10 smart charging events per month.
• Quarterly Carbon Dividend incentives, that are cash incentives which are paid out based on total customer participation and total carbon reductions.

Our Partners

BMW is partnering with UC Berkeley’s Transportation Sustainability Research Center (TSRC) to evaluate the company’s smart charging programs and quantify the carbon emission reductions, in an effort to track the impact of ChargeForward.

BMW will also use carbon data provided by WattTime, a tech non-profit organization that analyzes the electric grid to determine the carbon emissions caused by electricity use in various locations throughout the U.S.

This expanded national program will co-exist with current ChargeForward utility partners in specific regions: PG&E in Northern/Central California; Duke Energy in Charlotte, North Carolina; DTE in Detroit, Michigan; Xcel Energy in Colorado; and SMUD in Sacramento, California. BMW will continue to expand to new utilities to offer added benefits and incentives to our drivers through our ChargeScape joint venture.

BMW’s commitment to the BEV ecosystem

The national expansion of ChargeForward further demonstrates BMW’s dedication to the BEV transformation. This program is one of several charging infrastructure initiatives the company has recently announced, including its joint venture with six other OEMs to build a high-powered charging network across North America. In addition, BMW recently launched the Plug & Charge feature for its vehicles on the Electrify America network. This will make the individual charging session more convenient for customers by eliminating the need for an app or charger interaction. Simply plug-in and walk away, BMW will do the rest. Finally, to give customers access to more public chargers in North America, BMW will introduce Shell Recharge as additional public charging partner. With this, customers will gain access to more than 100,000 additional chargers, everything fully integrated into the myBMW App and vehicle head-unit.

BMW takes a holistic approach to environmental responsibility that goes beyond the vehicle alone. From design, engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, charging, and recycling, the company is taking steps to help lead the world to a more ecologically balanced future.

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BMW Group in America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,146 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Online:www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter:http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview

Google+:http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line atwww.bmwusanews.com,www.miniusanews.com andwww.press.bmwna.com.

• BMW Group to Adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its Battery Electric Vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, Starting in 2025.
• Drivers of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Electric Vehicles in the U.S. and Canada Will Gain Access to Designated Tesla Supercharger Stations in Early 2025.
• New Agreement Comes in Addition to BMW’s Commitment to Develop a New Charging Network in North America with Six OEM Partners. 

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – October 17, 2023…. In a continued effort to provide the best possible electric vehicle charging experience for its customers, BMW of North America and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA announced today that drivers of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Combined Charging System (CCS) battery electric vehicles (BEV) in the U.S. and Canada will gain access to designated Tesla Supercharger stations in early 2025.

“With six fully electric BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce models now available in the U.S. market, and more to come, it is our top priority to ensure that our drivers have easy access to reliable, fast charging,” said Sebastian Mackensen, President & CEO, BMW of North America. “This agreement is the latest in our longstanding and continued effort to expand charging options for our customers as we continue on the road to electrification.”

The companies will work together in the coming months to create a seamless customer experience enabling BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce drivers to find and access available Superchargers on their vehicle’s display, and make payments through their respective vehicle’s brand app.

As part of the arrangement, the BMW Group will also adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its battery electric vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, starting in 2025.

This agreement is independent of BMW NA’s recently announced commitment, with six other automakers, to create a joint venture company that will build a new, high-powered electric vehicle charging network in North America. The new joint venture will build at least 30,000 new chargers in metropolitan areas and along major highways, which will be accessible to drivers of all battery electric vehicles from any automaker using CCS or NACS charging standards. The joint venture is expected to be established this year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

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BMW Group In America

BMW (US) Holding, Corp. is the shareholder of BMW of North America, LLC, which has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; DesignWorks/USA.Inc, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

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Munich. The BMW Group is accelerating its ramp-up of e-mobility and increasingly relying on regional supply chains, in line with the principle “local for local”. The company aims to source components like battery cells close to vehicle production and gradually localise the supply chain for primary materials.

New partner to supply primary material for battery cell production 

Belgian company Umicore has now been recruited as a further partner for establishing a local supply chain in North America. Umicore will supply our battery cell supplier AESC with cathode active battery materials from a new plant in Ontario, Canada. This is an important step in strengthening the BMW Group's regional supply chains and securing the ramp-up of e-mobility.

In accordance with the “local for local” principle, our partner AESC is currently building a battery cell factory in Florence, South Carolina. With an initial capacity of 30 GWh/a, the facility will produce the innovative cylindrical lithium-ion battery cells specifically developed for the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology. Electricity for production of the battery cells and cathode raw material will come exclusively from renewable sources.

“The BMW Group pursues a globally balanced procurement strategy in the three main geographical regions of the world. Our battery cell supplier in the US will source key primary materials from Canada going forward. We are pleased that Canada is playing a strong role in establishing a robust and efficient battery cell supply chain for the BMW Group in North America,” said Joachim Post, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Purchasing and Supplier Network.

Further BMW Group investment in South Carolina

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, already announced an extensive investment of 1.7 billion US dollars in expansion of the US production site back in October 2022. This includes 700 million US dollars to build the BMW Group’s new assembly centre in Woodruff, which will provide high-voltage batteries for the fully-electric BMW X models in the future. In the initial phase, the roughly 93,000 sq. m. facility will produce sixth-generation battery modules. The assembly centre will also create about 300 new jobs.

Sixth-generation battery cell technology for better performance and sustainability 

The new sixth-generation battery format will increase energy density by more than 20 percent and improve charging speed and range by up to 30 percent. At the same time, CO₂ emissions from cell production will be reduced by up to 60 percent: on the one hand, by cell suppliers relying on energy from renewable resources; on the other, by using a percentage of secondary material for the raw materials lithium, cobalt and nickel.

• ChargeScape will aim to unlock the full potential of electric vehicle (EV) technology through conveniently managed energy services never before possible with gasoline-powered vehicles – benefiting EV customers, electric utilities and automakers.
• BMW Group, Ford and Honda will leverage years of cross-industry research around the Open Vehicle-Grid Integration Platform (OVGIP) to create a single platform that will seamlessly connect electric utilities, automakers and their interested EV customers to manage energy usage for a broad pool of EVs.
• ChargeScape will aim to provide EV customers financial benefits through EV-enabled grid services, as well as reduce EV customers’ personal carbon footprints while supporting grid resiliency.

TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 12, 2023 – BMW Group, Ford Motor Company and American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today announced that they have entered into an agreement to create ChargeScape, LLC, a new equally-owned company that will create a single, cost-effective platform connecting electric utilities, automakers and interested electric vehicle customers. Benefiting both EV customers and the electric utility industry in the U.S. and Canada, ChargeScape will unlock entirely new value that EVs can provide to the electric grid, while enabling EV customers to earn financial benefits through a variety of managed charging and energy-sharing services never before possible with traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The closing of the transaction and subsequent formation of ChargeScape is pending regulatory approvals, with the company expected to be operational early next year.

Building on years of OVGIP cross-industry collaboration, ChargeScape’s single platform will eliminate the need for individual integrations between each automotive brand and each electric utility. ChargeScape’s platform will give electric utilities access to EV battery energy across a wide pool of EVs. Participating EV customers will have the potential to earn financial benefits by charging at “grid-friendly” times through flexible and managed schedules. Electric vehicle customers will also eventually have the opportunity for even more significant impact by sharing the energy stored in their EV batteries with the grid during times of peak demand through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications.

ChargeScape will enable the smart use of plugged-in EV batteries by securely providing energy data to electric utilities and system operators like aggregated demand response, alignment of charging and EV battery utilization with off-peak, low-cost hours and the availability of high renewable energy. Due to the efficient integration with participating automakers and the anticipation of high levels of EV customer enrollment, these energy services are expected to be a cost-efficient, operational benefit for electric utilities.

Transformational Opportunity for EV Customers and Electric Utilities

The development of this project comes at a time when electric vehicle sales and infrastructure growth are ramping up quickly, bringing new opportunities to address challenges for the electric grid. More EVs on the road means increased electricity demand on utilities to charge them. ChargeScape aims to provide energy management services to help support grid resiliency while looking ahead to the future of V2G capabilities that will benefit both EV customers and electric utilities.

Additionally, ChargeScape will play a role in helping to decarbonize the grid. The company’s efforts will reduce EV customers’ personal carbon footprints by utilizing electricity that comes from more readily available renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar. While seamless integration between EV customers and utilities will be key to energy management success, participating EV customers will always remain in control of their charging and energy decisions.

“Electric grid reliability and sustainability are the foundation for an EV powered future,” said Thomas Ruemenapp, Vice President, Engineering, BMW of North America, LLC. “ChargeScape aims to accelerate the expansion of smart charging and vehicle-to-everything solutions all over the country, while increasing customer benefits, supporting the stability of the grid and helping to maximize renewable energy usage. We’re proud to be a founding member of ChargeScape and are looking forward to the opportunities this collaboration will create.”

“Electric vehicles are unlocking entirely new benefits for customers that can save them money while supporting grid resiliency and increase the use of clean, renewable energy,” said Bill Crider, global head of charging and energy services, Ford Motor Company. “ChargeScape will help accelerate the true potential of the EV revolution by providing significant benefits to both utilities and EV customers through smart vehicle-to-grid services.”

“As Honda seeks to achieve our global goal of carbon neutrality, we are counting on this platform to create new value for our customers by connecting EVs to electric utilities, strengthening grid resources and reducing CO₂ emissions,” said Jay Joseph, vice president of Sustainability & Business Development, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “With automakers accelerating toward the electrified future, we must find solutions like ChargeScape that enable all stakeholders to work together for the good of our customers, society and our industry by enabling greater use of renewable energy for and from mobility.”

Benefits of Working Together

ChargeScape, along with the work done to date through OVGIP, will bring managed charging benefits to more EV customers and can eliminate marketing and outreach costs for utilities trying to reach their individual customer bases. BMW Group, Ford Motor Company and American Honda have direct, multi-channel communication with their EV customers, solving a central problem for utilities that typically do not know or have an easy and cost-effective way to identify the EV customers in their service territory.

Additionally, by leveraging automaker telematics, ChargeScape intends to provide managed charge scheduling through vehicle connectivity without requiring Wi-Fi-enabled charging stations. This will support the many EV customers who do not use “smart” chargers at home, as their EVs would otherwise be unreachable for grid services.

The three founding members welcome other automakers to join in and fully unlock opportunities provided by ChargeScape’s grid service offerings once the company is fully operational.

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BMW Group In America

BMW (US) Holding, Corp. is the shareholder of BMW of North America, LLC, which has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; DesignWorks/USA.Inc, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers,147 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.  The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty.  Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services.  The company does that through three customer-centered business segments:  Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines always-on digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs.  Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.  Ford employs about 173,000 people worldwide.  More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Honda’s Commitment to the Environment

Honda is working toward its global goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its “Triple Action to Zero” approach, including achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, 100% utilization of renewable energy, and resource circulation, utilizing 100% sustainable materials by reprocessing products back to raw materials and reusing those materials in the creation of new products. Toward this goal, Honda will strive to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040.

To reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, Honda also is offsetting CO₂ emissions from its North American manufacturing operations through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for renewable wind and solar power that seek to cover more than 60% of the electricity Honda uses in North America. Honda also promotes environmentally responsible business practices with its suppliers and retail dealer partners across North America. Learn more at https://csr.honda.com/environment/na-environmental-report/.

• Seven major global automakers – BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes Benz Group, Stellantis NV – will create an unprecedented new charging network joint venture that will significantly expand access to high-powered charging in North America
• Targeting to install at least 30,000 high-powered charge points in urban and highway locations to ensure customers can charge whenever and wherever they need
• With a focus on delivering an elevated customer experience, the network will provide reliability, high-powered charging capability, digital integration, appealing locations, various amenities while charging, and use renewable energy
• Charging stations will be accessible to all EV customers, offering both Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors
• First stations are scheduled to open in the summer of 2024

July 26, 2023 – Seven of the world’s leading automakers – BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group, Stellantis NV – are creating a joint venture to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in North America, by making EV charging more convenient, accessible, and reliable.

The joint venture will include the development of a new, high-powered charging network with at least 30,000 chargers to make zero-emission driving even more attractive for millions of customers.

With the generational investments in public charging being implemented on the Federal and State level, the joint venture will leverage public and private funds to accelerate the installation of high-powered charging for customers. The new charging stations will be accessible to all battery-powered electric vehicles from any automaker using Combined Charging System (CCS) or North American Charging Standard (NACS) and are expected to meet or exceed the spirit and requirements of the U.S. National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.

The joint venture aims to become the leading network of reliable high-powered charging stations in North America.

The joint venture is expected to be established this year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

The first stations are expected to open in the United States in the summer of 2024 and in Canada at a later stage. Each site will be equipped with multiple high-powered DC chargers, making long-distance journeys easier for customers. In line with the sustainability strategies of all seven automakers, the joint venture intends to power the charging network solely by renewable energy.

Elevated Customer Experience

The new high-powered charging network will elevate the entire EV experience and drive EV adoption.

The network will provide a seamless, vehicle integrated, best-in-class charging experience, based on renewable energy, and supported by the quality, reliability, and resources of world-leading automakers.

Focused on customer comfort and charging ease, the stations will be in convenient locations offering canopies wherever possible and amenities such as restrooms, food service and retail operations either nearby or within the same complex. A select number of flagship stations will be equipped with additional amenities, delivering a premier experience designed to showcase the future of charging.

Initial plans call for the deployment of charging stations in metropolitan areas and along major highways, including connecting corridors and vacation routes, aiming to offer a charging station wherever people may choose to live, work and travel.

The functions and services of the network will allow for seamless integration with participating automakers’ in-vehicle and in-app experiences, including reservations, intelligent route planning and navigation, payment applications, transparent energy management and more. In addition, the network will leverage Plug & Charge technology to further enhance the customer experience.

An Open Network to Drive Electric Vehicle Growth

As more electric vehicles are introduced and the rate of consumer adoption increases, the demand for fast and reliable public charging also grows in parallel.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, as of July 2023, there are 32,000 publicly available DC fast chargers in the United States for use by 2.3 million electric vehicles, a ratio of 72 vehicles per charger. The NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) estimates that 182,000 DC fast chargers will be needed to support 30-42 million plug-in vehicles expected on the road by 2030.

With U.S. electric vehicle sales expected to exceed 50% of total U.S. sales by 2030, the expansion of reliable charging infrastructure will become even more critical to widespread electric vehicle adoption.

The creation of a best-in-class charging network will ensure that the EV infrastructure will support current and projected EV sales and will foster the adoption of electric vehicles.

Comments from JV Founding Partners

BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse: “North America is one of the world’s most important car markets – with the potential to be a leader in electromobility. Accessibility to high-speed charging is one of the key enablers to accelerate this transition. Therefore, seven automakers are forming this joint venture with the goal of creating a positive charging experience for EV consumers. The BMW Group is proud to be among the founders.”

GM CEO Mary Barra: “GM’s commitment to an all-electric future is focused not only on delivering EVs our customers love, but investing in charging and working across the industry to make it more accessible. The better experience people have, the faster EV adoption will grow.”

Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe: “The creation of EV charging services is an opportunity for automakers to produce excellent user experiences by providing complete, convenient, and sustainable solutions for our customers. Toward that objective, this joint venture will be a critical step in accelerating EV adoption across the U.S. and Canada and supporting our efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.”

Hyundai CEO Jaehoon Chang: “Hyundai’s investment in this project aligns with our ‘Progress for Humanity’ vision in making sustainable transportation more accessible. Hyundai’s expertise in electrification will help redefine the charging landscape and we look forward to working with our other shareholders as we create this expansive high-powered charging network.”

Kia CEO Ho Sung Song: “Kia's engagement and investment in this high-powered charging joint venture is set to increase charging access and convenience to current and future drivers and therefore accelerate the transition to EVs across North America. Kia is proud to be an important part of this joint venture with other reputable automakers as we embark on a journey towards seamless charging experiences for our customers and further strengthening Kia’s brand identity in the EV market.”

Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Källenius: “The fight against climate change is the greatest challenge of our time. What we need now is speed – across political, social, and corporate boundaries. To accelerate the shift to electric vehicles, we’re in favor of anything that makes life easier for our customers. Charging is an inseparable part of the EV-experience, and this network will be another step to make it as convenient as possible.”

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares: “We intend to exceed customer expectations by creating more opportunities for a seamless charging experience given the significant growth expected in the market. We believe that a charging network at scale is vital to protecting freedom of mobility for all, especially as we work to achieve our ambitious carbon neutrality plan. A strong charging network should be available for all - under the same conditions - and be built together with a win-win spirit. I want to thank each colleague involved, as it is a milestone example of our collective intelligence to listen and serve our customers.”

Contacts:

BMW Group: Mariella Kapsaskis (mariella.kapsaskis@bmwna.com) 

General Motors:Sanaz Marbley (sanaz.marbley@gm.com)

Honda: Chris Martin  (chris_martin@na.honda.com)

Hyundai: Miles Johnson  (milesjohnson@hmausa.com)

Kia:James Bell  (jbell@kiausa.com)        

Mercedes-Benz Group: Melinda Mernovage (melinda.mernovage@mercedes-benz.com) 

Stellantis NV: Shawn Morgan (shawn.morgan@stellantis.com)

• Envision AESC to Build New Battery Cell Plant in South Carolina to Supply Plant Spartanburg with Newly Developed Round Lithium-Ion Cells for BMW’s Next Generation Electric Vehicles.
• $1 Billion New Investment in Plant Spartanburg to Prepare for the Production of Battery Electric Vehicles in the U.S.
• At Least Six Fully-Electric BMW Models to be Built in the U.S. by 2030.
• Additional $700 Million Investment to Build a New High-Voltage Battery Assembly Facility in Woodruff, South Carolina Expands BMW Group Manufacturing Footprint in the State.

Spartanburg, SC – October 19, 2022…. The BMW Group continues the roll-out of its electromobility plan with a new investment in the U.S. to expand Plant Spartanburg and the company’s manufacturing footprint in the U.S.  BMW Group Chairman of the Board of Management, Oliver Zipse, announced today a $1.7 billion investment in its U.S. operations, including $1 billion to prepare for the production of electric vehicles at the company’s existing U.S. manufacturing facility in South Carolina, and $700 million to build a new high-voltage battery assembly facility in nearby Woodruff, SC.  By 2030 BMW Group will build at least six fully electric models in the U.S. 

Zipse was joined today at Plant Spartanburg by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey III, Chairman of Spartanburg County Council Economic Development Committee David Britt, and Woodruff, SC Mayor

Kenny Gist as he also announced an agreement to source next generation lithium-ion battery cells from Envision AESC, which will build a new plant in the state.

“For decades, Plant Spartanburg has been a cornerstone of the global success of the BMW Group. It is he home of the BMW X models that are so popular all over the world. Going forward, it will also be a major driver for our electrification strategy, and we will produce at least six fully electric BMW X models here by 2030. That means: The ‘Home of the X’ is also becoming the ‘Home of the Battery Electric Vehicle’,” said Zipse on Wednesday. “In addition, we can showcase BMW Group’s ‘local for local’ principle: Our newly developed sixth generation battery cells, which were specifically designed for the next generation electric vehicles, will be sourced here in South Carolina – where X goes electric.”

Envision AESC Battery Cell Plant in SC to Supply Plant Spartanburg. 

In line with the principle of "local for local,” the BMW Group aims to purchase battery cells for its electric vehicles where production takes place. The company has found a partner in Envision AESC, which will build a new battery cell factory in South Carolina, to supply Plant Spartanburg.  Envision will produce newly developed round lithium-ion battery cells, which were specifically designed for the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology and will be used in the next generation electric vehicles. The annual capacity of the battery cell factory will be up to 30 GWh.

The new battery format will increase energy density by more than 20 percent, improve charging speed by up to 30 percent and enhance range by up to 30 percent.  At the same time, CO₂ emissions from cell production will be reduced by up to 60 percent through the partial use of secondary lithium, cobalt, and nickel material, as well as renewable energy for production. 

The cooperation with Envision AESC is an important step in the BMW Group's plan to strengthen its regional supply chains. The expansion of electric vehicle production in combination with a local battery cell factory will lead to the creation of new supply chains, new networks for sub-suppliers, and new jobs throughout the entire region.

BMW Group has already announced that four additional battery cell factories will be built in Europe and China to meet its demand for next generation battery cells. The cell factories are being built by partners and will each have an annual capacity of up to 20 GWh.

Increased Investment and Expanded Manufacturing Capacity in SC.

Of the new $1.7 billion investment announced today, $700 million will be used to build a new high-voltage BMW battery assembly center in Woodruff, SC, near Plant Spartanburg.  The new facility will encompass over 1 million sq. ft. and produce next generation batteries for fully electric vehicles, and 300 new jobs will be created on site.  

Plant Spartanburg currently produces lithium-ion battery modules for the two plug-in hybrid electric vehicles built at the plant, the BMW X3 xDrive30e and BMW X5 xDrive45e. In 2021, nearly 70,000 electrified BMWs were built on site. The site in Woodruff will also leverage the experience and expertise developed in Plant Spartanburg’s existing operations at the new facility.

“BMW’s sustained and impactful presence in South Carolina demonstrates the power of partnership and shared commitment to our state’s automotive industry success,” said Governor McMaster. “With today’s announcement of a $1 billion expansion to Plant Spartanburg for manufacturing electric vehicles as well as $700 million for a new plant in Woodruff to assemble battery units, the road to the future is here. And I applaud BMW on helping lead the way.”

BMW Group Plant Spartanburg.

Plant Spartanburg was established 30 years ago and began producing vehicles two years later.  Since then, the plant has become the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles and a critical component of the company’s global production network.  The plant currently represents an investment of nearly $12 billion, employs more than 11,000, and has an annual capacity of up to 450,000 vehicles.  To date more than six million BMW vehicles have been built in the U.S. – for the U.S. and global markets.  Based on this strength, BMW has been the largest automotive exporter from the U.S. by value for the past eight years.

Plant Spartanburg currently produces 11 models including the BMW X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles, four BMW M models and two plug-in hybrid electric models.  Production of the all-new hybrid-electric BMW XM will begin later this year. 

The plant is supported by more than 300 suppliers in the U.S., including over 40 direct tier 1 suppliers in South Carolina alone.

“This is a very important step for Plant Spartanburg as we continue our legacy of producing high-quality vehicles, and build on the success of the last 30 years,” said Robert Engelhorn, President and CEO, BMW Manufacturing Co.  “With this latest investment, we futureproof our operations and prepare the plant for electrification and new technologies, ensuring both the long-term success of our company and our position as an attractive and viable employer in the state of South Carolina.” 

Ongoing Commitment in the U.S.

In addition to sales and marketing operations, the BMW Group footprint in the U.S. consists of nearly 30 locations in 12 different states, including an advanced design studio, a technology research and development center, and a venture capital fund in California, BMW Group Financial Services, and BMW Manufacturing Corporation, which operates Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina.  The BMW Group dealer network consists of nearly 650 independently owned BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad dealers nationwide.  Taken together, the BMW Group’s operatons in the U.S. directly and indirectly provide and support more than 120,000 jobs in the U.S. and has contributed $43.3 billion to the U.S. economy. 

“Technology Openness” and Customer Focused Flexibility.

BMW Group is clearly focused on a sustainable future and shares common ambition in the U.S. with regard to climate goals and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.  At the same time, the company is following a path of “technology openness” to offer a choice of fully electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and highly efficient internal combustion options to its customers in meeting their diverse needs in vastly different geographies across the nation.  BMW Group is committed to fulfilling its goal of making a minimum of 50% of its global sales battery electric vehicles by 2030.

360-Degree Approach.

BMW Group has also set an initial target to reduce CO₂ emissions by 40% per vehicle by 2030.  As BMW Group works towards the goal of climate neutrality, the company is focused on the reduction of CO₂ emissions throughout a vehicle’s entire life cycle.      

• Design and Engineering: Beyond simply electrifying its product portfolio, BMW Group begins the design and engineering phase of vehicle development with a ‘secondary first’ approach, so that currently on average nearly 30 percent of materials used in BMW Group vehicles are recycled or reused.  In the longer term, the “secondary first” approach aims to increase this figure to 50 percent.
• Supply Chain and Procurement: BMW Group has been actively involved for many years in initiatives to develop standards for responsible raw material extraction and promote compliance with environmental and social standards for raw material extraction through certification of mines. The cobalt and lithium used as raw materials for the new generation of BMW battery cells will be sourced from certified mines which allows the company to retain full transparency over extraction methods and ensures responsible mining.
• Vehicle Production: BMW Group’s global production network also relies on renewable energy such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power in the manufacturing phase of its vehicles. All of the company’s production sites have been net CO₂ neutral by offsets since 2021.
• Vehicle Use Phase: BMW Group is also working to ensure that the electricity generated to charge battery electric vehicles is done so sustainably.  For example, partnerships with dairy farms in California reduce greenhouse gas emissions by capturing methane gas and transforming it into renewable energy, which is exported to the power grid.  The company also operates a pilot program called ChargeForward in the San Francisco Bay Area which makes it possible for owners to charge their vehicles with as much renewable energy as possible.
• Vehicle Recycling & Post-Life: From the start BMW Group vehicles are designed with recycling in mind, thereby improving the possibility for components to be recycled or reused.  The company has already demonstrated the ability to recover more than 90% of the material from high-voltage batteries and has  approximately 3,000 collection points worldwide for the recycling of end-of-life vehicles.

As the BMW Group continues towards an electric future, the company is looking beyond the vehicles themselves to ensure that it delivers sustainable solutions across the value chain and throughout the entire lifecycle of the vehicle.  In the U.S. BMW currently offers two fully electric vehicles including the BMW iX Sports Activity Vehicle and the BMW i4 Gran Coupe.  The fully electric BMW i7 Sedan will come to market later this year and BMW will make another significant step forward.  For more information about the BMW Group’s focus on sustainability and unique approach to electrification, please visit: https://www.bmwgroup.com/en/sustainability.html

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About BMW North America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley, and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 146 BMW motorcycle retailers, 105 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

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Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com and www.press.bmwna.com. 

• Zipse: “We are committed to a clear course to achieve the 1.5 degree target”
• 50% reduction in global CO2 use-phase emissions by 2030
• Over 40% reduction in CO2 emissions during life cycle
• Ten million all-electric vehicles within ten years
• Secondary first: Up to 50% use of secondary material planned – initiatives to develop the market are required
• Cooperation with BASF and ALBA on plastic recycling
• Resource scarcity and social responsibility: BMW Group focussed on circular economy for sustainable materials
• RE:BMW – circular economy at the IAA Mobility in Munich

Munich. The BMW Group is increasing the pace of its efforts to combat climate change. Looking ahead to the introduction of the Neue Klasse, the company is further strengthening its self-defined objectives, announced in summer last year, to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, whilst also committing itself to a clear course that supports the 1.5 degree target for the limitation of global warming. The Neue Klasse will also see the BMW Group hugely increase its use of secondary materials with a firm focus on the principles of the circular economy, whilst also promoting better framework conditions for establishing a market for secondary materials.

To achieve a further reduction in CO2 emissions, the focus is on the utilisation phase of vehicles, which account for 70% of the BMW Group’s CO2 footprint. By 2030, the CO2 emissions per vehicle and kilometre driven will be at least halved from 2019 levels. The commitment of all manufacturers when it comes to combatting climate change can best be compared when looking at the entire life cycle of a vehicle, including production and upstream supply chain. Here, the BMW Group is planning a reduction of CO2 emission per vehicle of at least 40%.

“How companies are dealing with CO2 emissions has become a major factor when it comes to judging corporate action. The decisive factor in the fight against global warming is how strongly we can improve the carbon footprint of vehicles over their entire life span. This is why we are setting ourselves transparent and ambitious goals for the substantial reduction of CO2 emissions; these are validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative and will deliver an effective and measurable contribution,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, in Munich on Thursday. “With the Neue Klasse we are significantly sharpening our commitment and also committing ourselves to a clear course for achieving the 1.5 degree target.”

The BMW Group is the first German carmaker to join the Business Ambition for 1.5°C of the Science Based Targets Initiative and is committed to the goal of full climate neutrality over the entire value-added chain by 2050 at the latest. This means that the company is also part of the international Race to Zero Initiative. The company is convinced that this can be achieved using innovation, rather than any overall ban on individual technologies.

The most powerful driver on this path to climate neutrality is electric mobility, with the BMW Group’s Neue Klasse set to provide significant further momentum to the market. During the next ten years or so, the company will be putting around ten million all-electric vehicles on the road. As early as 2030, at least half of global BMW Group sales will be all-electric vehicles, with the MINI brand offering exclusively all-electric vehicles from 2030.

The BMW Group continues to comply with the stringent criteria of the Science Based Targets Initiative, when it comes to measuring the reduction of worldwide CO2 emissions of the company’s vehicles whilst they are being driven on the roads. For example, emissions from the production of fuel or electricity are included in the calculation and consumption is based on the WLTP cycle plus ten percent. With its current product and electrification strategy, the company is on track to meet the EU fleet target for 2030.

Beyond green electricity: Stronger focus on use of resources in future

BMW Group is clear that simply increasing the number of electric vehicles on the road does not automatically lead to climate-friendly mobility. The company understands that it is also crucial to reduce the use of primary material and the related environmentally harmful exploitation of resources and their often CO2-intensive processing – especially when it comes to car manufacturing, one of the most resource-intensive industries.

“2017 was the first time the world’s population consumed more than 100 billion tons of resources within a single year - a trend which we in the automotive industry must also counteract,” Zipse demanded. “This is a strategic issue, concerning not only ecological but also economic sustainability; the current development of commodity prices demonstrates the impact an industry that is dependent on limited resources must expect.”

With the number of battery-powered vehicles growing, there is increasing demand for many commodities such as cobalt, nickel and aluminium, which are required for the vehicles’ high-voltage batteries. However there is great potential for the reuse of materials in the sense of a circular economy and together with specialist partners, the BMW Group has already demonstrated that it’s technological feasible to achieve a recycling efficiency of over 90 percent.

The amount of secondary nickel used for the high-voltage battery in the BMW iX is already as high as 50 percent, with the battery housing containing up to 30 percent secondary aluminium. The BMW Group aims to improve these figures even further for future product generations.

In addition to the increasingly scare availability of primary materials and resulting commodity price increases, there are many sustainability reasons to use more secondary materials and move towards a circular economy.

The supply of secondary materials is considerably less CO2-intensive than is the case with primary materials and can significantly improve the CO2 footprint, especially within the supply chain. In the case of secondary aluminium, the CO2 saving compared with primary material constitutes a factor of approximately 4 to 6, whilst steel and thermoplastics lie between around 2 and 5.

The extraction of resources for primary materials – particularly through mining – has a significant impact on the basic regenerative capacity of ecosystems. This impact can be greatly reduced by increasing the use of secondary materials.

The mining and trading of conflict materials carries the possible risk of associated infringements of environmental and social standards. The BMW Group has established numerous measures to counteract this risk, including membership of the Responsible Minerals Initiative. However, the most efficient strategy for avoiding risks is to minimise the mining of such primary materials.

‘ Secondary First’: Crucial vehicle materials with high secondary content

As part of its holistic approach to sustainability, the BMW Group aims to increase significantly the percentage of secondary materials in its vehicles. On average, current vehicles are manufactured using almost 30 percent recycled and reusable materials. With the ‘ Secondary First’ approach, BMW Group plans to successively raise this figure to 50 percent.

Of course it’s crucial that the quality, safety and reliability of the materials comply with the same high standards as those existing for primary materials – and so it’s essential that the market availability of such high-quality materials increases considerably. In order to achieve this, cross-industry approaches and political initiatives are necessary.

Based on the four principles Re:think, Re:duce, Re:use, Re:cycle, the BMW Group is boosting its activities in the field of circular economy, an area where it’s carrying out pioneering work. For instance, vehicle production now involves the increased separation and recycling of crucial material groups, so these can be reused by the industry within the framework of ‘closed loops’.

Cooperation with BASF and the ALBA Group

Within the supply chain and depending on market availability, secondary materials are increasingly being used in BMW Group vehicles. Moreover, together with its partners, the company is providing important impetus when it comes to developing secondary materials. One example is the company’s pilot project with BASF and the ALBA Group for the increased recycling of plastics used in cars.

The aim of the project is to reduce the use of primary plastics by means of a comprehensive recycling system. To this end, the ALBA Group analyses end-of-life BMW Group vehicles to establish whether a car-to-car reuse of the plastic is possible. In a second step, BASF assesses whether chemical recycling of the pre-sorted waste can be used in order to obtain pyrolysis oil. This can be then used as a basis for new products made of plastic. In the future, a new door trim or other components could be manufactured from a used instrument panel, for example.

Closed loop rather than downcycling: ‘Circular Design’ as the basis of a circular economy

In order to achieve higher recycling rates and whilst also guaranteeing the high quality of secondary materials, the materials must be extracted in their purest form as early as possibly during the recycling process. For example, the onboard wiring systems must be easy to remove, in order to avoid mixing steel with copper from the cable harnesses in the vehicles. If this mixing does take place, the secondary steel loses its essential material properties and therefore no longer meets the high safety requirements of the automotive industry. To support this early and easy extraction of materials, the interior of a car must increasingly be made of monomaterials, so that at the end of the car’s lifecycle, as much as possible can be transferred back into the usable material cycle. Basically, reducing the number of materials can help to improve the quality of recycled materials. Currently, vehicles consist of about 8,000 to 10,000 different materials.

To achieve this, the BMW Group is now focusing on a ‘Circular Design’ concept, which is designed to guarantee the economical dismantling capacity of vehicles. It is essential that disassembly of the vehicle and its individual components is fast and cost-efficient to ensure that prices of secondary materials are competitive. It all starts with the construction of the vehicle, which must be done in such a way that allows materials to be removed at the end of the vehicle’s service life without different types of material being mixed with each other. 

RE:BMW at the IAA Mobility – a visionary outlook on circular economy

The BMW Group is putting circular economy at the centre of its presence at the IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, where the company will offer a visionary outlook on the potentials of a circular economy and sustainable mobility. The BMW i Vision Circular embodies the company’s ambitious claim to be the most sustainable manufacturer for individual premium mobility.

This visionary vehicle, designed according to the four principles of the circular economy Re:think, Re:duce, Re:use, Re:cycle, shows how individual, sustainable and luxurious urban mobility could look in 2040. The BMW i Vision Circular is manufactured from 100 percent secondary materials or renewable raw materials, and is 100 percent recyclable.

This car demonstrates that climate protection and individual mobility do not necessarily contradict each other. On the contrary, it shows that using new technologies and innovation, the BMW Group can fulfill the planet’s requirements for greater sustainability without customers having to forgo individual mobility.

In case of queries please refer to:

Corporate Commmunications

Max-Morten Borgmann, Communications Corporate

Telephone: +49 89 382-24118, Max-Morten.Borgmann@bmwgroup.com

Kai Zöbelein, Communications Sustainability

Telephone: +49 89 382-21170, Kai.Zoebelein@bmwgroup.com

Eckhard Wannieck, Head of Communications Corporate, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-24544, Eckhard.Wannieck@bmwgroup.com

Bernd Eckstein, Head of Communications Purchasing, Supplier Network, Sustainability

Telephone: +49 89 382-59490, Bernd.Eckstein@bmw.de

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

E-mail: presse@bmwgroup.com

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 and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

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• BMW Group continues to expand manufacturing capacity at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing
• E-drive trains for 500,000 electrified vehicles per year from 2022
• Extensive in-house drive train expertise: Start of production for fifth-generation high-voltage batteries in Germany
• Successful transformation to e-drive train production

Munich/Dingolfing. Production of fifth-generation high-voltage batteries and battery modules for use in the BMW iX* and BMW i4 is now underway at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing. At the same time, the company is also increasing production capacity for its fifth-generation electric motor, which has been built in Dingolfing for the BMW iX3* since 2020 and will also power the BMW iX* and BMW i4. “We expect at least 50 percent of the vehicles we deliver to our customers worldwide to be electrified by 2030. To achieve this, we are relying on our extensive in-house drive train expertise: We are increasing capacity at existing drive train production locations – like here in Dingolfing – and developing capabilities at others – like recently in Regensburg and Leipzig,” explained Dr Michael Nikolaides, Senior Vice President, Production Engines and E-Drives, BMW Group.

The BMW Group is investing more than 500 million euros in expanding production capacity for e-drives at its Dingolfing location alone between 2020 and 2022. From 2022, it will produce e-drives for more than half a million electrified vehicles. The BMW Group will invest a total of around 790 million euros in expanding capacity for electric powertrain components at its Dingolfing, Leipzig, Regensburg and Steyr locations between 2020 and 2022.

Standard production of the BMW iX* will soon get underway at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, followed by production of the BMW i4 at Plant Munich in the autumn. The highly integrated e-drives and high-voltage batteries for these vehicles will all be manufactured at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing. The BMW Group already began producing battery components at Plants Regensburg and Leipzig in April and May 2021. In line with growing demand for e-drives, BMW Group Plants Landshut and Steyr are also stepping up production of e-drive housings.

Production of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology

The output and energy content of drive units and high-voltage batteries with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology can be flexibly scaled. This means they can be optimally adjusted to suit different model variants.

Each vehicle uses up to two highly integrated e-drives, which combine the electric motor, power electronics and transmission in a single housing. Based on the design principle of a current-excited rotor, the fifth-generation e-drive does not require any materials classified as rare-earth metals.

BMW eDrive technology also comprises a high-voltage battery with state-of-the-art battery cell technology. The BMW Group agreed with its suppliers that they will only use renewable green power for producing fifth-generation battery cells. The entire high-voltage battery boasts outstanding qualities in the areas of performance, charging and discharging characteristics, durability and safety. The technically standardised production process for battery modules has been further developed in such a way that different module variants can be produced on the same production line – in line with the growing range of electrified vehicle models and performance levels. The production systems are highly flexible and scalable. Battery modules are produced from supplied prismatic battery cells at the respective BMW Group production location. A modular system developed in-house allows model-specific high-voltage batteries to be manufactured from these modules in a flexible arrangement.

The company has outstanding expertise and experience, both in the field of battery cell technology and in production of model-specific high-voltage batteries. The BMW Group conducts basic research in the fields of cell chemistry and cell design at its own Battery Cell Competence Centre. The BMW Group also produces battery cell prototypes itself. These battery cell prototypes are used in tests to validate the development maturity of battery cells and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the production processes. In addition, the prototype production of the battery cells serves the identification of process potentials as well as the optimization of the production processes. In this way, the BMW Group gains a thorough understanding of the entire battery cell value chain and the decisive competitive advantages its chemical and technical properties offer. This enables battery cells to be manufactured to precise specifications that are geared towards each vehicle’s individual requirements.

Competence Centre for E-Drive Production

Following extensive expansion, the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production now provides a usable area of 125,000 sq. m. This is where the company manufactures electric motors and the components needed for them, as well as high-voltage batteries and battery modules. A paint coating is also applied to the battery cells at this location. The coating increases mechanical robustness and thermal conductivity, thereby improving insulation and cooling of the even more powerful fifth-generation battery cells.

Plant Dingolfing has been manufacturing standard high-voltage batteries and battery modules since 2013, when the BMW Group's first all-electric vehicle, the BMW i3*, went into production. The first production lines for electric motors and high-voltage batteries for plug-in hybrids went on-stream there in 2014. The Competence Centre for E-Drive Production has been steadily growing ever since. The plant has also been producing high-voltage batteries for the fully electric MINI Cooper SE* since 2019 and, since 2020, also the highly integrated fifth-generation e-drive used for the first time in the BMW iX3*. Production of the even more powerful high-voltage batteries for the BMW iX* and BMW i4 is now getting underway. E-drives for future models can also be produced on the flexible production lines.

Qualification for long-term, sustainable jobs

With the BMW Group systematically pursuing progress in electromobility, the demands on employees and their areas of responsibility are also constantly evolving. “We are growing our staff for e-drive production almost exclusively through personnel restructuring. We are actively shaping the transformation process and leveraging our employees’ skills so we can develop long-term sustainable jobs,” explains Nikolaides.

The Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing currently has almost 1,400 employees. By the end of 2021, around 1,900 employees are expected to work in e-drive production in Dingolfing.

Production employees receive further training at the in-house learning centre, which uses innovative vocational training and further education methods to provide employees with intensive preparation for their new tasks. Employees’ knowledge and skills are being expanded specifically to include new electromobility technologies, with a training concept that is constantly updated. The training sessions are held in the classroom, at practice workstations and directly on the production lines. Digital methods and augmented reality play a bigger role here than ever before. Thanks to these methods, the training courses were also able to continue safely during the coronavirus pandemic, in compliance with health and safety measures.

“The learning centre takes a holistic approach that supports employees throughout their professional development and further education, from their first day in production,” reports Dr Sven Jochmann, head of Production E-Drives Dingolfing, Landshut, Regensburg, Leipzig. “As well as trainers and managers, new colleagues are also supported by trained mentors who help them quickly find their way around their new working environment,” adds Jochmann.

Transformation of the Dingolfing location

The Dingolfing location is a prime example of the successful transformation of the BMW Group plants towards e-mobility and digitalisation. E-drive production, including electric motors and high-voltage batteries, is located in an existing, roughly 50-year-old building at the site, rather than using new space. The infrastructure was adapted to the new requirements and expanded accordingly. A modern staff restaurant seats 300 and there is also a new parking deck with space for 800 vehicles. The structural measures are rounded out by a 25,000 sq. m. logistics hall, new office spaces and social rooms close to the production area, as well as an additional plant gate in the south for improved logistics flows.

On the issue of sustainability, the BMW Group takes a holistic approach to reducing CO₂ emissions and minimising resource consumption that covers the entire value chain, including in-house production, the supply chain and use phase. In Dingolfing, as at all BMW Group locations, production uses only green power. In addition, all BMW Group locations have been net carbon neutral since this year, through corresponding offsets and certificates. The company is also using many other levers: from building technology to energy-efficient installations to increased use of renewable energies. Electric trucks will be used for intra-company goods transport at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production from the autumn.

2030: At least 50 percent of global BMW Group sales will be fully electric

The BMW Group continues its massive electromobility ramp-up: The company will offer five fully-electric models by the end of this year: the BMW i3*, the MINI Cooper SE* and the BMW iX3*, as well as the two main innovation flagships, the BMW iX* and BMW i4.

Between now and 2025, the BMW Group will increase its sales of fully-electric models by an average of well over 50 percent per year – more than ten times the number of units sold in 2020. Based on its current market forecast, the company also expects at least 50 percent of its global sales to come from fully-electric vehicles in 2030. In total, over the next ten years or so, the BMW Group will be releasing about ten million fully-electric vehicles onto the roads.

Global e-drive production network with a focus in Germany

The high-voltage batteries and battery components needed for all BMW and MINI electrified vehicles come from the company’s own battery factories in Dingolfing, Leipzig and Regensburg in Germany, as well as from Spartanburg (USA) and Shenyang (China). The BMW Group has also localised production of high-voltage batteries in Thailand, at its Rayong plant, and is working with the Dräxlmaier Group for this. Munich is home to the e-drive pilot plant and the Battery Cell Competence Centre, where the BMW Group is conducting a full analysis of battery cell value creation processes and advancing technology for its production processes.

The company produces electric motors at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing and at BMW Group Plant Landshut. BMW Group Plant Steyr builds the housing for the highly integrated fifth-generation e-drive.

Munich. At today’s BMW Group Annual Conference the upcoming BMW i4 was revealed. “With its sporty looks, best in class driving dynamics and zero local emissions, the BMW i4 is a true BMW. It makes the heart of the BMW brand now beat fully electric,” said Pieter Nota, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales.

The BMW i4 is a fully electric 4 door Gran Coupé and will enter the market during the course of 2021, including a BMW M Performance model. Its refined balance of BMW typical sportiness, comfort and sustainable performance are unique in its segment.

The BMW i4 model line will be available in different versions covering ranges of up to 590km (WLTP) and up to 300 miles* (EPA). With a power output of up to 390kW / 530HP the BMW i4 can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in around 4 seconds.

First pictures, sketches, footage and video can be found attached to this media information.

Full details on the BMW i4 will be released over the next weeks.

_{* preliminary manufacturer estimate, not official EPA values.}

Munich. The character of the Concept i4 is not only a product of its design, but also of its visionary sound profile. Hans Zimmer composed the sound of the BMW Concept i4 together with BMW sound designer Renzo Vitale under the brand name BMW IconicSounds Electric. BMW IconicSounds Electric will imbue BMW’s electric models with extra emotional depth by connecting the driver with the vehicle’s character on another level through individual tones and sounds.

“Renzo and I were inspired to bring together the past and future of BMW with the sound for the BMW Concept i4,” explains Zimmer. “We hope the sound we created is classic yet surprising and has a feeling of lightness that is fitting for the BMW brand.” The aural repertoire of the BMW Concept i4 stretches from the driving sounds in the Experience Mode “Core” to the more intense tones of “Sport”. Acoustic accompaniments to a door opening and when starting the car are likewise part of its soundscape.

Sound by Hans Zimmer is the starting signal for electric driving pleasure.

Hans Zimmer and Renzo Vitale presented the new start/stop sound in Zimmer’s Santa Monica studio back in November 2019. The ready-to-drive sound for all-electric BMW models and BMW plug-in hybrids will be introduced as a standard feature worldwide from July 2020. “The ability to design the sound in our vehicles makes it possible for us to spark positive emotions,” says Vitale. “The new start/stop sound is intended to instil a sense of excitement at the prospect of electric driving when the customer gets into their vehicle and begins the journey.”

BMW IconicSounds Electric.

The silence of electric drive systems is often cited as a major benefit of electric mobility. As the choice of electrified models increases, however, it also means some drivers are missing out on the emotional appeal of sound. Jens Thiemer, Senior Vice President Customer and Brand BMW: “Sound has always played an important role in the emotionalisation of our vehicles. Now we are taking the joy of sheer driving pleasure to a new level and are particularly pleased to be working with Hans Zimmer to create the new sound world of electric mobility at BMW. This collaboration will result in our forward-looking sound offering for electrified vehicles: BMW IconicSounds Electric.”

The BMW Concept i4 drive sound is the second developed for electric BMW vehicles with Hans Zimmer, following the presentation of the electric sound for the BMW Vision M NEXT at the #NEXTGen event in Munich in June 2019. “We have an extraordinary opportunity to turn electric driving in a BMW into a very special experience with the help of great sounds,” Zimmer commented in 2019. “I am relishing the challenge of co-designing the composition for future electric BMWs.”

The following global release does not contain U.S. specific market information.

Munich. The BMW iX3, the production of which will commence in 2020, facilitates locally emission-free driving in a novel and efficient form, whilst also being suitable for everyday use. A range of more than 440 km* within the legislative WLTP test cycle will be achieved with a net-battery size of 74 kWh*. The first purely electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is the trailblazer for BMW eDrive technology of the fifth generation, which, starting 2021, will also be deployed in the BMW i4 and the BMW iNEXT. For this purpose, both the drive system and the high-voltage battery unit featuring pioneering battery cell technology have been completely redeveloped. In the BMW iX3, the related advancement ensures brand-typical driving experience combined with outstanding efficiency and a novel balance of weight and range.

The BMW iX3 is yet a further milestone in the consistent realisation of the BMW Group’s electrification strategy. In 2020 the BMW X3 will become the brand’s first model available both with conventional petrol and diesel engines as well as plug-in hybrid and purely electric drive. With this “power of choice” offer, the globally operating company is taking into account the various different requirements and needs of their worldwide customers worldwide as well as maximum effectiveness in the reduction of CO2 emissions. The BMW iX3 is produced for the world market by the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive in Shenyang, China.  

* = preliminary data

________________________.

The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology is the key to future-oriented sustainability for vehicles with electrified drive systems. It is the result of consistent development work within the framework of BMW EfficientDynamics and the experience gained by the BMW Group in the field of electric mobility spanning more than 10 years. All powertrain components used for BMW eDrive technology were developed solely by the BMW Group. Moreover, the electric motor and the high-voltage batteries are produced in corporately owned manufacturing facilities. In this way, the BMW Group ensures it has a decisive influence on the product properties and the quality of each component. Furthermore, the drive unit and the high-voltage battery unit are flexibly scalable in terms of power and energy content and can thus be used in various different vehicle concepts and segments.

EfficientDynamics at its best: New drive component with high efficiency and brand-typical power characteristics.  
In the BMW iX3, EfficientDynamics reaches a new level. The vehicle’s fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology comprises a drive unit in which electric motor, system electronics and transmission are brought together into a central housing. As a result, the required installation space of the drive technology and its weight are considerably reduced. The ratio between motor output and weight of the drive system improves around 30 percent compared to the previous generation.
The electric motor featured in the BMW iX3 delivers a maximum power output of 210 kW/286 hp*. The torque of 400 Nm* allows for high initial acceleration and keeps a high level even at the upper motor speeds because of exclusive BMW design measures.

A further special feature of the electric motor being deployed in the BMW iX3 for the first time is a construction method that eliminates the need for rare earth materials.

The electric motor used in the BMW iX3 transfers power to the rear wheels. This effectuates a further increase in drive system efficiency. Moreover, the range of the BMW iX3 benefits from the drive design conveying the traditional BMW rear-wheel drive experience.

High-voltage batteries with significant higher energy density and responsible use of raw materials.

The high-voltage battery unit of the BMW iX3 is integral part of BMW’s fifth eDrive generation and is based on the latest evolution in NMC-811 technology in BMW typical prismatic design. The BMW Group has outstanding development capabilities in this field. This know-how flows into precise specifications with regard to the use of materials and battery design, according to which the battery cells are produced. Consistent research and development work not only raises energy density but also constantly improves all battery cell characteristics, in particular also durability and safety. In total, the BMW high-voltage battery shows the optimum of what is possible nowadays.
At the same time the BMW engineers were able to reduce the share of cobalt contained in the battery by another two thirds. Compared to former technology used by BMW Group, the gravimetric energy density on cell level in the BMW iX3 is around 20 percent higher.

With the BMW iX3 the raw materials Cobalt and Lithium for the first time are purchased by BMW directly and then handed over to the producer of the battery cells.

In addition, scalability and the compact design of the high-voltage battery unit have been further optimised. The battery cells are grouped into modules at specialised BMW production locations and finally assembled as high-voltage battery packs aligned to each model. The high-voltage battery unit in the BMW iX3 is installed in an extremely flat position in the vehicle floor. Thanks to this arrangement, there is no loss of space for passengers and the luggage compartment compared to the conventionally powered versions of the BMW X3.

Greater range thanks to high efficiency rather than a bigger battery

With a gross energy content of 74 kWh*, the high-voltage battery unit installed in the BMW iX3 achieves a range of more than 440 km* in the legislative WLTP test cycle. Within its segment, the BMW iX3 boasts not only a unique low power consumption of less than 20 kWh/100km* accordingly to the WLTP test cycle, but also stands for a novel ratio between battery size and range.
Thanks to the favourable efficiency rating of the drive components and the high energy density of the high-voltage battery unit, the BMW iX3 achieves a range that is only possible for common electric vehicles with larger and thus heavier batteries.

Positive environmental impact secured.
The “real” ecological footprint of electric vehicles is sometimes questioned, particularly in markets still having a low percentage of green electricity in the public power grid. At the BMW Group every electrified model has to proof that for the entire cycle, comprising raw material procurement, supply chain, production and usage phase as well as recycling, its CO2 balance is substantially better than the one of a conventionally powered sibling.  For the BMW iX3 the related advantage is more than 30 percent compared to a BMW X3 sDrive 20d when average European power supply is used during the car’s usage phase. If the vehicle is charged with green electricity the advantage is around 60 percent.

Furthermore, in analogy with the BMW i3 Plug&Play technology, the high-voltage battery featured in the BMW iX3 is planned for a second life as a stationary battery pack for the period following the first long life in the car. This way the already positive CO2 balance of the BMW iX3 can be further improved.

* =  preliminary data

Munich. The heart of the BMW brand beats in the premium segment of the mid-range category. Along with the BMW 4 Series Coupé, BMW 4 Series Convertible and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé models, it is the BMW 3 Series that brings out the qualities that are key to hallmark brand driving pleasure in a particularly concentrated form. Now BMW is transferring the brand's characteristic core features to the age of electric mobility – the central purpose in developing the BMW i4. The BMW Group's first purely electrically powered model for the premium mid-range combines driving dynamics, sporty and elegant design, premium quality and the spacious comfort and functionality of a four-door Gran Coupé with locally emissions-free mobility. This heralds a new era of driving pleasure.

The future of electric mobility will be shaped by fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, for which the BMW iX3 – to be produced from 2020 onwards – will act as a pioneer, followed by the BMW iNEXT and the BMW i4. With fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, which also includes the latest innovations in the field of battery cells, the BMW i4 sets new standards in sporty performance, achieving a range of some 600 kilometres.

The development of the BMW i4 is part of a comprehensive product offensive by the BMW Group in the field of models with electrified drive. The company currently has the biggest range of all-electric and plug-in hybrid models within the competitive field. By 2023, the BMW Group will have 25 models with electrified drive in its program. With a model portfolio that includes efficient combustion engines as well as modern plug-in hybrid and purely electric drive, the BMW Group as a globally operating company is taking into account the varying requirements and preferences of its customers in different regions of the world. Irrespective of the type of drive selected, all current and future models feature hallmark brand driving pleasure as part of their specific characteristics.

Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology for optimised dynamics, efficiency and range.

The drive technology of the BMW i4 sets new standards in terms of power density, efficiency and range in locally emissions-free driving. The electric motor, power electronics, charging unit and high-voltage battery have been entirely newly developed. Together they form the BMW eDrive technology of the fifth generation, with which the BMW Group has made further significant advancements in the field of electrified drive. From 2020 onwards, fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology will be introduced first in the BMW iX3 and then in the BMW iNEXT and BMW i4. The electric motor developed for the BMW i4 delivers a maximum output of around 390 kW/530 hp, reaching the level of a V8 engine in current BMW models fitted with a combustion engine. Its spontaneous power delivery gives the BMW i4 outstanding performance characteristics and exceptionally high efficiency.

The fifth generation of BMW eDrive also includes a newly designed high-voltage battery featuring the latest battery cell technology. The design of the high-voltage battery developed for the BMW i4 is characterised by its extremely flat design and optimised energy density. With a weight of some 550 kilograms, it has an energy content of around 80 kWh. This gives the BMW i4 a range of approximately 600 kilometres.

Gran Coupé with characteristic design and performance features.

The all-electric BMW i4 will be produced from 2021 onwards and subsequently launched on the global automotive markets. The new model will be manufactured at the company's main plant in Munich, where other vehicles produced include the BMW 3 Series Sedan with conventional combustion engine and plug-in hybrid drive, the BMW 3 Series Touring with conventional drive and from summer 2020 also with plug-in hybrid drive, the BMW 4 Series Coupé and the BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.0 – 9.3 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 227 – 213 g/km). In addition to the sporty, elegant design that is typical of a 4-door coupé of the brand, the BMW i4 is characterised by impressive performance features. The BMW i brand's first Gran Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in around 4.0 seconds, achieving a top speed of more than 200 km/h.

A flexible vehicle architecture, the flat, low-positioned high-voltage battery and the compact drive technology create a high degree of freedom in realising a model-specific design. The BMW i4 combines the characteristic proportions of a 4-door coupé with the typical design features of a BMW i model. Dynamically stretched lines and a precise surface design go hand in hand with aerodynamically optimised exterior features as well as sustainability accentuations that are specific to BMW i. High entry and exit comfort for the rear passengers and a spacious, variable interior ensure high suitability for both day-to-day trips and long-distance travel. As such, the BMW i4 can be clearly identified as a BMW Gran Coupé – and equally clearly as an electrically powered vehicle.

Modular, flexible drive and battery storage technology.

The electric drive component of the BMW i4, its charging unit and high-voltage battery are all developed in-house by the BMW Group. Production is carried out in-house or according to BMW Group specifications. Here, the experience gained from development of the previous generations of BMW eDrive technology is consistently tapped into with the aim of optimising all components on an ongoing basis.

The BMW Group's comprehensive expertise in the field of electrified drive systems forms the basis for a scalable modular system whose components can be integrated into different vehicle concepts with great flexibility. Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology comprises a highly integrated drive system in which the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are accommodated in a single housing. This drive system is compatible with all vehicle concepts and will be available for different models in a range of output levels. The highly integrated design of the system allows a significant increase in power density as well as a reduction in weight and manufacturing effort. Production of future-generation electric motors will no longer require materials categorised as rare earths.

The next generation charging unit is characterised by a uniform package suitable for all future vehicle architectures. It can be used in plug-in hybrid models as well as in purely electrically powered vehicles and is designed for a charging capacity of up to 150 kW. This allows the high-voltage battery of the BMW i4 to be charged to around 80 per cent of its full energy content in around 35 minutes. This results in a charging time of around six minutes for a range of 100 kilometres.

In the field of high-voltage batteries, too, the advancements introduced with the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology are based on the BMW Group's in-depth expertise and years of experience. The company has an exceptionally high level of know-how both in the field of battery cell technology and in the manufacture of model-specific high-voltage batteries. This lays the foundation for continuous optimisation of the batteries – both in future plug-in hybrid models and in purely electrically powered vehicles. The BMW Group has been manufacturing modules and model-specific high-voltage batteries for vehicles with electrified drive systems since 2013. An independently developed modular system with a flexible arrangement of the modules enables integration of batteries developed in-house into various vehicle concepts. Consistent ongoing development work is dedicated to optimising the basic characteristics of the battery cells as well as the structure of the modules and their arrangement in the respective model-specific storage unit. For example, the batteries used in the BMW i4 and other future electric vehicles have a higher number of cells per module, a reduced number of components, a more compact design and increased flexibility with regard to their geometry.

With the establishment of the Battery Cell Competence Centre in Munich, the BMW Group has further expanded its research and development expertise in this area, which is crucial to the future of electromobility. The focus is on fundamental research in areas where there is an impact on customer-related factors such as energy density, accessible peak output, service life, safety, charging characteristics, response at different temperatures and manufacturing costs. At the new Battery Cell Competence Centre, research is being conducted in particular into the potential for further optimisation of cell chemistry and cell design. The selection and composition of materials for the anode, cathode, electrolyte and separator as well as the format of the battery cells made of these materials will have a key impact on the quality of high-voltage batteries used in future models with electrified propulsion.

Engines made by BMW and MINI win awards in four out of eight capacity classes

 Munich/Stuttgart. Success in four out of eight capacity classes put the BMW Group in a dominating position at the "International Engine of the Year Awards" this year. Among the award-winning power units at the world's most renowned engine competition were both petrol and diesel engines with four, six and eight cylinders. The victorious quartet consisted of the V8 engine of the BMW M3, the in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo, direct injection and VALVETRONIC used in such vehicles as the BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series, the 4-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo from the BMW X1 xDrive 23d and the BMW 123d, and the 4-cylinder Twin Scroll turbo engine of the MINI Cooper S.

The wide range of winning engines is further evidence of the outstanding expertise of the BMW Group in the area of engine development. It enables engines of great power yet also exemplary efficiency to be offered across all series and output classes. The "Engine of the Year" awards were conferred by an international jury made up of 76 engine journalists from 35 countries.
The award ceremony was held at the "Engine Expo" trade fair in Stuttgart.

The "Engine of the Year" awards have been in existence since 1999. Since then over 50 class and overall victories have fallen to engines developed for automobiles of the brands BMW and MINI. Among the serial production winners in this competition were the 1.6 litre 4-cylinder engine from the MINI Cooper S, achieving its fourth and last victory this year. Next year it will be the turn of the recently presented successor engine in the 1.4 - 1.8 litre capacity class. In addition to the Twin Scroll technology and petrol direct injection of its award-winning predecessor, this engine also has variable valve control and an output of 135 kw/184 bhp, as well as being the world's most efficient engine in its capacity class.

The first victory in the category of 1.8 - 2 litre engines went to the most powerful 4-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW range. The 2.0 litre fully aluminium direct injection power unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo and common rail direct injection has an output of 150 kW/204 bhp and impressed jury members both with its pulling power and its outstanding efficiency. The experts commented that in view of the qualities of this engine, it appeared doubtful as to whether diesel engines will get any better at all in future.

There was an internal BMW changeover in the class of 2.5 - 3 litre engines.
The new winner in this category is the 3.0 litre in-line 6-cylinder engine with an output of 225kW/306 bhp with BMW TwinPower Turbo, petrol direct injection and VALVETRONIC. It thus replaces the predecessor engine of identical output which secured the overall "Engine of the Year" award in 2007 and 2008, as well as finishing first in its capacity class last year. Yet further proof of the dominance of BMW engines in this capacity class is provided by a glance at the ranking table. Second to the new title winner and a long way ahead of the competition is the new 3.0 litre in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and common rail direct injection.

The V8 engine of the BMW M3 won its third award in succession in the capacity class between 3.0 and 4.0 litres. The 309kW/420 bhp 4.0 litre engine used in the high-performance sports cars BMW M3 Coupé, BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M3 Convertible fascinated the jury yet again with its outstanding propulsive force resulting from the high-revving concept which is characteristic of this power unit. In addition to brilliant performance qualities, the experts also noted the impressive efficiency of the high-performance engine, which in the BMW M3 is combined with an Auto Start/Stop function, brake energy regeneration and other BMW EfficientDynamics measures.

* European press kit - US specifications not finalized at press time. Page 2: Description in Brief Page 3: Short Version Page 8: Long Version Page 23: Specifications Page 24: Output and Torque Diagram

•First eight-cylinder for the BMW M3 sports car.
•Supreme performance ensured by 309 kW/420 hp from 4.0 litres.
•Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres (295 lb-ft) at 3, 900 rpm,
85 per cent of maximum torque over a speed range of 6,500 rpm.
•Unique thrust and muscle ensured by consistent implementation of the M
high-speed engine concept, maximum engine speed 8,300 rpm.
•Consistent lightweight construction of engine and ancillary units,
new V8 power unit one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world,
lighter than the straight-six power unit in the former model.
•Variable camshaft control, low-pressure double-VANOS for an
optimum charge cycle, system offering full power and performance even with
normal engine oil pressure.
•Eight individual throttle butterflies for spontaneous engine response.
•Consistent and reliable oil supply with longitudinal and lateral acceleration
up to 1.4 g ensured by two oil pumps and wet sump oil lubrication optimised for
supreme dynamic behaviour.
•Exhaust system optimising cylinder charge, optimised for weight and function
by means of internal high-pressure remoulding, exhaust emissions fulfil EU4 and
LEV 2 standards.
•Upgraded MSS60 engine control unit for optimum coordination of all engine
functions with the various control systems in the car.
•Ion flow technology recognising and distinguishing engine knocking phenomena
as well as misfiring and miscombustion by measurement of ion flow in the
combustion chambers.
•Brake Energy Regeneration with intelligent alternator control.

International journalists bestow prizes on six BMW engines - including the
Variable TwinTurbo-Diesel.

Munich. BMW has become the first car manufacturer to receive six different
prizes within a year at the annual Engine of the Year Awards, the world's most
prestigious engine competition. The prizes include one for the most unique
diesel power unit, the Variable TwinTurbo engine featured in the BMW 535d.

In addition to first prize as "Engine of the Year", awarded today at the Engine
Expo 2005 in Stuttgart to the 373 kW (507 bhp) V10 high-performance engine
powering the BMW M5 / M6, BMW engines also managed to scoop the following
awards:

- V10 5.0-litre engine in the M5/M6: Best New Engine 2005
- V10 5.0-litre engine in the M5/M6: Best Performance Engine 2005
- V10 5.0-litre engine in the M5/M6: Winner in the class exceeding 4.0 litres
- 3.0-litre 535d Variable TwinTurbo-Diesel: Winner in the class 2.5 to 3.0
litres
- 3.2-litre six cylinder engine in the M3: Winner in the class 3.0 to 4.0
litres.

It is of particular interest to note that a diesel power unit - the 200 kW (272
bhp) 3.0-litre Variable TwinTurbo engine featured in the BMW 535d - was again
voted winner in one of a total of eight different engine classes by an
international jury comprising 56 renowned journalists.

The BMW M3 engine is victorious for the fifth time in succession.

This means that BMW is the most successful brand to participate in the Engine
of the Year competition, the Munich engine builder now having seized 26
trophies over a period of seven years. The 252 kW (343 bhp) 3.2-litre
high-performance power unit featured in the BMW M3 has alone received this
coveted award for the fifth time in succession - an unprecedented record.

This remarkable engine has contributed decisively to BMW's sustained
accomplishment at the Engine of the Year Awards, thereby assisting the company
in establishing itself as the most successful engine designer and builder. When
one of the members of the jury, Arturo de Andrés, says for instance that the M3
engine is a power unit "for drivers who appreciate first-class engineering", he
is referring to the both agile and distinctive, high-revving inline six
cylinder, a unique engine indeed.

All horsepower figures noted are European DIN ratings. U.S. SAE net ratings
vary from the numbers quoted here.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, June 5, 2003 ... The BMW Group has won three out of
a total of 12 awards at the renowned International Engine of the Year event in
Stuttgart, Germany. By winning engine Oscars number 16, 17 and 18, the BMW
Group has once again collected the industry's most significant award for
automobile engines. The 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine of the BMW M3, the
2.5-liter six-cylinder engine of the BMW Z4 roadster, and the 1.6-liter
four-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper S have all been awarded the "Engine Of
The Year 2003" title in their respective displacement classes.

Having started in 1999, the International Engine of the Year Award program is
comprised of established motor journalists from 18 different countries.
Together, they choose the most outstanding engines of the year during the
Testing & Engine Expo in Stuttgart. As history shows, they have voted for BMW's
four-, six-, eight- and twelve-cylinder engines the most frequently. It is
largely thanks to the 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine of the BMW M3, which has
been awarded yet another prize this year, establishing BMW as the most
successful competitor by a wide margin. Having won the coveted "International
Engine of the Year" award in 2001, this year's award in its displacement class
of 3.0 to 4.0 liters makes the M3's engine the winner for the third time
running. In addition, the M3's engine won the class with nearly twice as many
scores (202 points) as the Porsche 911 GT3, which scored 109 points.

The jury states that the BMW M3's six-cylinder engine owes its landslide
victory to the wealth of technology behind it. And rightly so, as the 24-valve
engine with dual variable camshaft control uses a separate high-pressure oil
supply for its valve timing actuation. Additionally, its high-speed Formula-1
concept makes it a true high-performance gem. At 333 hp, this engine is one of
the world's most powerful naturally aspirated engines in terms of specific
output as it easily exceeds the magical 100-hp-per-liter mark. This power unit
is second to none, catapulting the BMW M3 Coupe from a standstill to 60 miles
per hour in a mere 4.8 seconds. Irish motor journalist and judge Padraic Deane
of the Irish Auto Trade Journal states, "Probably the best street-legal
performance engine around."

Tried and trued in the 3- and 5-series automobiles and new in the Z4 this year
is the 2.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine. Even though the second award
winner from Munich is older than the contest itself, it comes along as more
modern and sportier than ever in the new BMW Z4 2.5i roadster, and offers
convincing performance. Knowing the engine from the BMW 325i and 525i models,
the judges nevertheless find it most enjoyable in the Z4 roadster where "the
engine's sporty nature" can be seen at its best. With 184 hp, the 2.5-liter
engine is yet another one of the sporty engines produced by BMW. Acceleration
from 0 to 60 mph in the Z4 2.5i takes only 7.1 seconds and it boasts a top
speed of 146 mph. This two-seater is easily the sportiest open-air festival of
the year.

In the 2.0- to 2.5-liter displacement class, the Z4's engine could be found on
almost every other judge's score sheet-not least because of its exemplary
environmental results as it complies with the strictest exhaust emission
regulations currently in force in Europe (EU4) and in the US (ULEV), proving
that sheer driving pleasure under blue skies does not necessarily have to leave
dark clouds in its wake.

The MINI team can also rejoice, since the engine of the MINI Cooper S received
the third award for The BMW Group. The supercharged and intercooled 1.6-liter
engine in the MINI Cooper S has won the 1.4- to 1.8-liter category with flying
colors. This 163-horsepower, SOHC 16-valve engine propels the appealing
subcompact from 0 to 60 in a mere 6.9 seconds, and continues to propel the
Cooper S to a top speed of 135 mph. In spite of this fantastic forward pull,
the MINI's fuel consumption averages no less than 24 mpg city and 33 mpg
highway according to the EPA's testing. Even more impressive is the broad
torque curve of this compact engine, which offers 80 percent of its 155 lb.-ft.
of torque between 2,000 and 6,500 rpm. According to the judges, the MINI Cooper
S owes its go-kart-like handling to a combination of torque, engine output and
its curb weight of only about 2,678 pounds, that is optimally distributed over
the front and rear axles.

BMW Group In America

BMW of North America has been present in the United States since 1975. Since
then, the BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales
and financial service organizations for the BMW and MINI brands and Rolls-Royce
Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a
technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the
country. BMW Manufacturing Corp. in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's
global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all
Z4 Roadster and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization
is represented in the U.S. through networks of 340 BMW car, 327 BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle, 148 BMW Motorcycle retailers, and 70 MINI dealers. BMW (US)
Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South
America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet
at http://www.bmwusa.com http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com and
http://www.miniusa.com

# # #

Journalist note: Information about the BMW Group and its products is available
to journalists on-line at the BMW Group PressClub at the following address -
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

# # #

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, May 15, 2002... BMW garnered five out of a possible
twelve awards today in Stuttgart, Germany from International Engine of the Year
2002. BMW won awards in the following categories:

- International Engine of the Year 2002: 4.4-liter - 745i, 745Li
- Above 4-liter category: 4.4-liter - 745i, 745Li
- Best New Engine 2002: 4.4-liter - 745i, 745Li
- 3-liter to 4-liter category: 3.2-liter - M3, M3 Convertible, M roadster, M
coupe
- 2.5-liter to 3.0-liter category: 3.0-liter - 330i, 530i

Three of the awards including "International Engine of the Year 2002" were
awarded to the revolutionary new 4.4-liter V-8 engine, which includes such
industry firsts as Valvetronic throttle-less power control, steplessly variable
intake tube length, and continuing with VANOS continuously variable valve
timing. "With practically every aspect of the engine administered by infinitely
variable controls, this is the current state-of-the-art gasoline engine,"
explained Frank Marcus from Car and Driver Magazine, one of the panel of forty
international automotive journalists who acted as judges. This engine also
propelled the 2002 745i to receive the coveted titles "Best Engineered Car For
2002" from Automotive Engineering International magazine, and "Best Sedan" from
Robb Report Magazine.

This is the second consecutive year that a BMW engine has won three titles. Now
in their fourth year, the International Engine of the Year Awards have become
one of the most sought-after automotive accolades. Judged by a panel of 40
renowned automotive journalists from eighteen countries as disparate as the
USA, Japan, New Zealand, India, Germany, France, South Africa, and the UK, the
2002 awards will once again highlight and acknowledge underhood engineering
excellence. Engine Technology International Magazine, based in the United
Kingdom, organizes the "International Engine of the Year Awards".

Last year, the outstanding 3.2 liter in-line six cylinder engine from BMW M won
not only in the "3-liter to 4-liter category" and "Best New Engine 2002", but
also won "International Engine of the Year 2001". Also, the 3.0-liter M54
engine won in the "2.5-liter to 3.0-liter category" for the second year in a
row. On the 3.2-liter M3 engine, C. Van Tune, another of the judges, explained
his decision: "Last year's International Engine of the Year is still the champ
of this class! No turbos, no supercharger, just great design." And discussing
the 3.0-liter straight six, he offered "Smooth, torquey power everywhere in the
rev-range. A great engine for sports, luxury, and utility vehicles." Both of
these engines also won "10 Best Engines 2002" from Wards Auto World Magazine in
January of this year. As Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO of BMW (US) Holding Corp.
puts it, "BMW has always been known first and foremost as an engine company,
and I cannot imagine any finer achievement than to receive such inclusive
internation

al recognition for our efforts."

BMW Group In America

BMW of North America has been present in the United States since 1975. Since
then, the BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales
and financial service organizations for the BMW and MINI brands; a South
Carolina manufacturing operation; DESIGNWORKS/USA, an industrial design firm in
California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations
throughout the country. The BMW Group is represented in the U.S. through
networks of 340 BMW car, 327 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle, 148 BMW Motorcycle
retailers and 53 MINI car dealers. BMW US Holding Corp., the Group's
headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff
Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet
at http://www.bmwusa.com http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com and
http://www.miniusa.com.