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Straßkirchen, Irlbach. The BMW Group officially opened its new Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen in Bavaria today, marking the start of series production. Just two-and-a-half years after construction began, the facility is now supplying sixth-generation high-voltage batteries to BMW Group Plant Munich for installation in the BMW i3. Due to strong demand for Neue Klasse models, the ramp-up has progressed more rapidly than originally planned, with series production immediately operating on a two-shift basis. “The new plant plays a key role in our production network: As the central platform, it will supply our German vehicle plants with sixth-generation high-voltage batteries”, said Raymond Wittmann, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Production. “In this way, our high-tech plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen is making a vital contribution to the ramp-up of the Neue Klasse.”

A strong signal for Germany as an industrial hub

The BMW Group's investment of around one billion euros underlines the company’s commitment to Germany’s industrial base. “With our Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen, we are sending a strong signal: for our technological competitiveness, for electromobility – and for Germany as a business location”, Wittmann emphasises. “We are convinced that successful industrial production in this country will remain possible in the future. The decisive factor is a reliable and competitive framework.”

From construction start to first pre-series battery in less than two years

Construction of the plant on the 60-hectare site and installation of the production facilities was completed in record time: Less than two years elapsed between the start of construction in April 2024 and the production of the first pre-series battery in March 2026. This was made possible by the close cooperation between the company, policymakers, authorities and regional partners, with the support of the local population. Extensive communications and ongoing dialogue between all parties involved, combined with the use of digital planning and management tools, contributed significantly to the success of the project. In September 2023, the municipality of Straßkirchen held a referendum on the construction of the plant. A significant majority of over 75 percent of residents approved the construction of the BMW Group plant – with very high voter turnout of around 77 percent. “Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen shows what is possible in Germany when everyone involved works towards the same goal,” said Wittmann. “The location in Eastern Bavaria offers ideal conditions: highly skilled employees, modern production structures, short distances within the German plant cluster and a highly efficient regional environment. This puts us in an optimal position for continued growth and increasing demand for fully-electric vehicles.”

Strengthening Eastern Bavaria as an industrial base

With its new plant, the BMW Group continues to expand its footprint in Eastern Bavaria. About 40 percent of all BMW cars ever produced have been built at the vehicle plants in Dingolfing and Regensburg. Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen is now further strengthening the region’s status as a hub for electromobility. About a fifth of the company’s global workforce is employed at Plants Dingolfing, Regensburg, Landshut and Irlbach-Straßkirchen.

Intelligent production for maximum quality

The BMW Group has established state-of-the-art, intelligent and efficient production processes for its in-house-developed sixth-generation (Gen6) high-voltage battery. The new cylindrical round cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery, based on the “cell-to-pack” principle. The high-voltage battery itself serves as an integral part of the body structure (“pack-to-open-body”). All production steps are continuously monitored inline and comprehensively documented in real time. In-house developed AI assistants and agents analyse this data and, together with 500 robots working across a 50,000-sq.m. production area, help ensure zero-defect battery production. At the same time, the extensive use of artificial intelligence enhances Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) in production. Well before commissioning, digital twins of production and virtual reality applications support planning and employee training. “Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen demonstrates how quickly we can scale a new battery concept to industrial production,” said Rudolf Hummelsberger, Head of High-Voltage Battery Production Dingolfing and Irlbach-Straßkirchen. “The key factor is the interaction between a skilled and committed team and the continuous sharing of experience within the production network.” Once fully operational, around 1,600 employees will work at Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen, producing several hundred high-voltage batteries per day on two production lines.

How the BMW Group builds its Gen6 high-voltage batteries

The fundamentally new Gen6 high-voltage battery concept will be used across all BMW Group vehicle segments. In developing the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, the BMW Group has filed patent applications for more than 500 innovations. The BMW Group is also setting new industry standards in production: During the production process, more than 3,500 data points per battery are collected and monitored in real time. The battery cells for the high-voltage batteries are supplied by leading cell manufacturers. The highest technical standards apply. Upon receipt of goods, additional measurements – such as voltage checks – are carried out. Next comes so-called cell clustering, where the battery cells are connected to coolers. This step ensures optimal insulation and cooling. The cell clusters and cell contact system are then laser-cleaned and welded with pinpoint precision. An innovative foaming process follows, ensuring that all elements are protected as a mechanical unit. The hardened foam guarantees the safety, stability and durability of the high-voltage battery. The housing is then closed, sealed and riveted. In the final step, the Energy Master – the central control unit – is installed onto the high-voltage battery. A permanently elastic sealing adhesive is applied to ensure a reliable seal. Finally, each high-voltage battery undergoes a 100% end-of-line inspection.

Global production strategy: local for local

Installation of the Gen6 high-voltage batteries takes place at five new production facilities worldwide, which the BMW Group is building close to its vehicle plants, in line with its “local for local” principle. Alongside Irlbach-Straßkirchen, state-of-the-art high-voltage battery assembly plants have also been built in Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), Woodruff (USA) and San Luis Potosí (Mexico). This approach strengthens regional infrastructure and existing facilities and helps secure jobs. The distances between battery and vehicle plant remain short. The “local for local” principle also applies to construction and operation of Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen: All directly contracted construction companies came from Germany, with two thirds from Bavaria. A similar picture emerges regarding the production equipment: More than three quarters of the plant engineering firms are from Germany, with one third based in Bavaria. In this way, the BMW Group is relying on German cutting-edge technology in its choice of plant engineers and giving the local economy a major boost.

Resource efficiency at the plant, secondary material used in battery cells

Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen requires no fossil fuels for regular operations. A photovoltaic system generates a share of the electricity required directly on site. All additional energy needed is supplied entirely from renewable sources. The process is designed so that no water is required for assembling the high-voltage batteries. In this way, the site is combining the industrialisation of electromobility with lower emissions and resource-efficient production. The Gen6 battery cells for the BMW i3, which are assembled into high-voltage batteries at Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen, rely on secondary materials for a portion of their cobalt, lithium and nickel. Renewable energy is used in the production of anode and cathode materials, as well as in cell manufacturing. In comparison with the Gen5 cell in the previous model, the CO₂e emissions per watt-hour were reduced by approx. 33 percent.

Leap in technology with batteries from Lower Bavaria in the new BMW i3

For the start of series production, Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen will supply Plant Munich with sixth-generation high-voltage batteries that will help the new BMW i3 achieve outstanding numbers: Its high-voltage battery boasts a capacity of 108.7 kWh. Thanks to the pack-to-open-body concept, the battery housing forms part of the vehicle structure. The range of the First Edition of the BMW i3 50 xDrive extends up to 906 kilometres (according to the WLTP test cycle), demonstrating its long-distance capabilities. At the same time, the 800-volt technology ensures significantly shorter charging times. With a DC charging capacity of up to 400 kW, the BMW i3 50 xDrive can add up to 423 kilometres of range in 10 minutes (according to ISO 12906 in the WLTP cycle) when plugged in to a DC fast charger. The new BMW i3 also offers bidirectional charging capabilities.

Bavarian battery network

Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen is part of the BMW Group’s Bavarian battery network. The Competence Centers and pilot and series production facilities span the entire battery cell and high-voltage battery value chain: from research and development to production and recycling.

Pilot plants for high-voltage batteries: from idea to series production

The road from development to series production goes through the pilot plants for high-voltage batteries in Parsdorf and Hallbergmoos, as well as the Research and Innovation Center (FIZ) in Munich. This is where prototypes of high-voltage batteries for the Neue Klasse are assembled, and the production processes are developed and tested. The teams optimise production processes, define quality standards and gather experience for subsequent large-scale manufacturing. What proves effective here is passed on to the battery plants worldwide. In this way, the global production network for high-voltage batteries benefits from close collaboration between the German pilot plants and series production facilities worldwide.

Battery Cell Competence Centers

At the Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich, the BMW Group is exploring new cell technologies for future high-voltage batteries. The Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf examines how these battery cells can be manufactured in the highest quality and with maximum resource efficiency. This is where battery cells are manufactured and tested under near-series-production conditions. The new Cell Recycling Competence Center (CRCC) in Salching – just 16 kilometres from Straßkirchen – went into operation in December 2025. Here, valuable raw materials are recovered using the innovative direct recycling concept developed by the BMW Group and reintegrated into the production process. Direct recycling enables residual materials from battery cell production, and even whole battery cells, to be mechanically dismantled. This eliminates the need for energy-intensive chemical or thermal processing. While the Competence Center is built and operated by Encory GmbH, the intellectual property for the recycling method is owned by the BMW Group. 

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Munich/Dingolfing/Irlbach-Straßkirchen. The BMW Group is investing around two billion euros in vehicle production and battery manufacturing to underline the importance of Germany as a production location. The company is ensuring that its plants are ready for the next generation of the BMW 3 Series. The BMW 3 Series has been the heart of the BMW brand for over 50 years. About 18 million vehicles have been completed since production started in 1975, with 15 million of these made in Germany. This makes the BMW 3 Series the world’s most successful premium mid-size automobile. Approximately one billion euros has been spent on further development of the Munich and Dingolfing vehicle plants. The company has invested around one billion euros in the new Irlbach‑Straßkirchen battery plant in Lower Bavaria.

“We are investing in value creation, competitive production and job security in Germany. The new BMW 3 Series is the proof. We are in control of the transformation – from development to industrialisation and high-efficiency production in Munich and Dingolfing. The new high-voltage battery plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen illustrates how we are bringing key electromobility technology back to our home base. We are making our contribution. Conditions that enable investment, innovation and competitiveness are essential if industrial value creation is to enjoy continued success in Germany,” said Raymond Wittmann, Member of the Board of Management of BMW Group, Production.

New BMW i3 in Munich, BMW 3 Series with classic drivetrain in Dingolfing

The all-electric BMW i3 is being constructed at the extensively renovated BMW Group parent plant in Munich, using sixth-generation high-voltage batteries delivered by the new BMW Group Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen. The BMW 3 Series variants with combustion engine and plug-in hybrid drive are being produced at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Both locations boast state-of-the-art production systems and structures, ensuring that the BMW Group remains competitive when producing premium automobiles that are in demand around the world. Staying true to the “local for local” principle, in China these standards and guidelines will also be applied to production of the BMW i3 and the BMW 3er at the BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico, and of a modified version of the BMW 3 Series for the Chinese market in Shenyang, China.

Unequivocal commitment to Germany and the Bavaria region

Germany is the heart of BMW Group production. The company produces more than one million vehicles in its German plants each year. This means that the BMW Group makes around a quarter of the cars produced in the country. The company’s domestic production volume is more than the vehicle sales total for the BMW Group in Europe.

At the same time, Germany is the centre of a tightly integrated industrial value creation network. Around 55 percent of BMW Group employees work in Germany. On top of this, there are also thousands of partner companies along the value chain.

The BMW Group is underlining its commitment to regional value creation with the new BMW 3 Series. As production ramps up, around 760 supplier locations are supplying the Munich and Dingolfing plants with components and materials. More than 70 percent of these production locations are in Europe, with more than 30 percent in Germany.

Two BMW 3 Series locations, two paths to the future

The new BMW 3 Series is adding a new chapter to the outstanding success story of German automobile production. Since debuting in 1975, the BMW 3 Series has been rolling off the line without interruption at the parent plant in Munich, where it will be joined for the first time by the all-electric BMW i3. Production of this model series has also taken place intermittently at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing since 1980, making it one of the most formative vehicles in the history of the location.

Preparations for the eighth generation were designed with specific differences at the two locations. In Munich, the BMW Group made significant investments in new buildings and production facilities for the technologies of the Neue Klasse. In existence for more than 100 years, the plant has been extensively modernised into a state-of-the-art “electric only” location. With a high level of flexibility and a range of models, Plant Dingolfing produces combustion engine and plug-in hybrid versions of the new BMW 3 Series for customers all around the world. A new production line for the BMW 3 Series has been added to the body shop to ensure that the new models can be efficiently integrated into existing production, while the vehicles will be added to the mix of BMW models on the line in the assembly area and paint shop.

Irlbach-Straßkirchen gives a boost to Lower Bavaria as a location for industry

The BMW Group Plant Irlbach-Straßkirchen is another key component for the next generation of the BMW 3 Series and the Neue Klasse. Sixth-generation high-voltage batteries will be assembled there and from October onwards, the location will provide the Munich plant with battery systems for the all-electric BMW i3. The plant is an example of how to establish high‑tech industry in Germany. It boosts regional value creation, secures skilled jobs and adds a future location to the industrial ecosystem of Lower Bavaria. At the same time, the project demonstrates that it is possible to establish new industrial locations in Germany when companies, politicians, local authorities and government officials work closely together. The BMW Group has had an active presence in Lower Bavaria for nearly six decades. The development of the company and the economic advancement of the region have long gone hand in hand, and continue to do so to this day. The effects of investments in plants, technologies and employment stretch far beyond the factory gates. These support regional suppliers, service providers and mid-size companies, generate income and tax revenue, and retain industrial expertise within the region.

The BMW 3 Series as a symbol of a successful, industrial future

The BMW 3 Series represents the next step of a gradual introduction of the technologies of the Neue Klasse into the core portfolio of the BMW Group. By the end of 2027, the company will have put around 40 new or revised models with technologies of the Neue Klasse on the road. The BMW 3 Series is far more than simply a vehicle. It represents the power of innovation, the performance levels of modern production, the successful transformation of existing plants and the unequivocal commitment of the BMW Group to Germany as an industrial home base.

If you have any queries, please contact:

Corporate Communication

Benedikt Torka
Spokesperson Production Network BMW Group
Mobile: +49-151-601-32455
E-mail: Benedikt.Torka@bmwgroup.com

Thomas Niedermeier
BMW Group Plant Dingolfing and Irlbach-Straßkirchen, Communications
Tel.: +49-8731-76-27666
E-mail: Thomas.Niedermeier@bmwgroup.com

Sofia Elena Rizzi
Press Spokesperson BMW 3 Series
Mobile: +49-151-601-67436
E-mail: Sofia-Elena.Rizzi@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

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

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133.5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

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

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BMW Maps with Driver Assistance | Summary

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

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

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

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

Focus on systems integration, efficiency and driving dynamics 

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

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

Fuel cell system enters next phase of construction

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hydrogen as additional electrical drive train option

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

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

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

Questions and answers

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

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

What is currently being tested in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen?

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

How does the fuel cell system work?

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

Where will the fuel cell system be produced going forward?

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

What are the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell technology?

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

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

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

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

Focus on systems integration, efficiency and driving dynamics 

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

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

Fuel cell system enters next phase of construction

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hydrogen as additional electrical drive train option

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

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

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

Questions and answers

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

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

What is currently being tested in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen?

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

How does the fuel cell system work?

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

Where will the fuel cell system be produced going forward?

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

What are the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell technology?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More safety features parking and maneuvering. 

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

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

BMW Panoramic iDrive provides clarity for the driver.

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

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

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

New test site in Sokolov is paying off.

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

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

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

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

Q&A: Short Answers to the Most Important Questions

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

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

What makes BMW's new exit warning special?

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

What does BMW Symbiotic Drive mean?

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

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

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

What role does the new proving ground in Sokolov play?

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

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

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

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

New model, new architecture, new plant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview of quotes

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

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

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

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

Questions and answers

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

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

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

Key data at a glance

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

Site strengthens electromobility in the US and footprint in South Carolina

“Plant Woodruff plays a key role in the ramp-up of electromobility in the US,” said Raymond Wittman, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production. “With our Gen6 high-voltage battery, we’re not only taking a major

technological leap – we are also setting new standards in production. In Woodruff, we are combining cutting-edge processes, artificial intelligence and the expertise of our employees to create a production facility designed for the highest quality.”

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

Intelligent production for maximum quality

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

Training in a virtual factory

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

Just three years from start of construction to series production

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

Gen6 battery cells with reduced carbon footprint

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

Global production strategy: local for local

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

How the BMW Group assembles its Gen6 high-voltage batteries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Home of X.

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

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

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

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

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

New BMW X5 Available in Five Drivetrains.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Landshut. BMW Group Plant Landshut has started pre-series production of a key control unit for the BMW Group hydrogen drivetrain. The so-called “Energy Master” will in future be used in the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen. At the same time, the site is commissioning a second production line for the control unit used in the battery-electric vehicles of the Neue Klasse (BMW iX3 and BMW i3).

The Energy Master is the central control unit of the high-voltage system. In battery-electric vehicles, it is mounted on the high-voltage battery. In the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, a modified version performs a central control function within the drivetrain system and is installed on the BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system. The control unit combines energy and data flows, manages the power supply for the e-machine and on-board electrical system, and ensures safe, intelligent operation of the overall system. This makes it the key interface between the fuel cell system, the innovative high-voltage battery and the electric drive machines.

Josef Hochreiter, Vice President Hydrogen Vehicles at the BMW Group: “Our ambition for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is clear: a genuine BMW – with sheer driving pleasure. To achieve this, a perfectly coordinated overall system is crucial. The Energy Master is a key component in this: it intelligently controls the innovative high-voltage battery and, together with the third-generation fuel cell system, delivers assured driving dynamics.”

The plant’s expertise creates synergies between battery-electric and hydrogen-based drivetrain technologies. The close integration of electrical/electronics expertise and industrial series production makes the plant ideally suited to manufacture components for both technology paths. At the BMW Group, the development and production of the Energy Master are being carried out fully in-house for the first time.

Thomas Thym, Head of BMW Group Plant Landshut: “With the start of pre-series production of the hydrogen-specific Energy Master, we are reinforcing Plant Landshut’s role as a centre of expertise for innovative drivetrain technologies. Here we combine development, manufacturing expertise and industrial scaling – for battery-electric vehicles as well as hydrogen fuel cells.”

Landshut’s role in electromobility
BMW Group Plant Landshut is home to two production areas for the Energy Master. For battery-electric vehicles (BEV), the highly complex control unit has already been in series production since last year – currently for the BMW iX3 and BMW i3 models of the Neue Klasse. With the commissioning of the second production line, capacity for this will almost double. At the same time, pre-series production of the hydrogen-specific Energy Master for the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is now beginning.

In addition, Landshut plays a central role in the BMW Group hydrogen drivetrain network: the media distribution plate and the fuel cell stack housing for the current pilot fleet of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen were already produced here and have since been further refined. The media distribution plate ensures the precise distribution of hydrogen and air within the fuel cell, while the stack housing structurally integrates and protects the cell stack.

The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen
For the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, which will be launched in 2028, the BMW Group is introducing a new hydrogen tank concept. The arrangement and size of the tanks enable a range of up to 750 kilometres*. The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage system makes particularly efficient use of the available installation space and is compatible with the Gen6 high-voltage battery without taking up interior space. This makes it possible to produce fuel cell models on the same production line as vehicles with other drive systems.

The BMW Hydrogen Flat Storage technology forms part of the drivetrain. Together with the fuel cell system and an innovative high-voltage battery, it delivers the brand-typical BMW driving pleasure. The latest generation of fuel cell technology (Gen3) will also be used; it is more compact, more efficient and more powerful than all previous generations and is being developed jointly by the BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation.

Series production of the fuel cell systems will begin from 2028 at BMW Group Plant Steyr; Landshut is firmly integrated as a technology and component location.

The BMW Hydrogen strategy
The BMW Group sees technological openness and a broad product portfolio as key success factors. By integrating fuel cell technology into the new BMW X5 series, the company is strategically expanding its series offering and making the advantages of hydrogen available to customers.

Hydrogen stands for electric driving with long range and fast refuelling, diversifies energy sources and reduces dependence on a single infrastructure or raw material supply chain.

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

Since 2020, the BMW Group has invested a high three-digit million-euro sum in expanding electromobility and related key technologies at Plant Landshut.

CO2 emissions & consumption.

* As this is a prototype in the development phase, the statutory WLTP consumption data (and EPA) is not yet available.

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

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

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

Clear strategy with maximum flexibility

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

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Munich/Zagreb. The BMW Group and the Croatian University of Zagreb’s Regional Centre of Excellence for Robotic Technology (CRTA) continue to advance joint research in battery cell production. The “Insight” research project will develop and implement practical AI models to optimise battery cell production at the BMW Group. The research project covers the entire battery cell value chain: from electrode production to end-of-line testing and in-house developed direct recycling.

How the research project saves raw materials, costs and time

At the Battery Cell Competence Centre (BCCC) in Munich, the BMW Group is developing battery cells for future generations of high-voltage batteries. As part of this process, numerous test series are conducted, which by their very nature require significant time and material investment. At the same time, these tests tie up manufacturing equipment and laboratory capacity. This is where the “Insight” research project comes in: Its artificial intelligence network uses existing test data, as well as real-time data from ongoing production, to accurately predict battery cell process parameters and performance data. As a result, the duration and number of test series can be significantly reduced, while maintaining or improving quality. In this way, the newly developed AI systems reduce the material and time required in individual process steps by more than 50 percent.

Other cell production use cases

The research project’s prediction models not only reduce the number of test series but also support final approval of battery cells. Following initial charging at the end of production, the cells must be stored for a defined period at precisely specified temperatures before they can be installed in a battery housing. This phase, also referred to as the “quarantine”, requires corresponding storage capacity. However, the research project’s AI systems are able to conduct a full analysis of the battery cells in advance, potentially eliminating this process step in the future.

Research collaboration combines theory and practice

Since the project was launched in 2024, the BMW Group and the University of Zagreb have been developing joint solutions using artificial intelligence to improve battery cell production. To this end, doctoral candidates and students at the University of Zagreb are collating and structuring available production data and using it to create AI models that can identify specific patterns. These AI models then make predictions that further optimise production performance, quality and costs. “We are working on scaling the newly developed AI models from the prototype environment,” explains Christian Siedelhofer, head of Technology Development Lithium-Ion Battery Cells at the BMW Group. One option would be to enable cell manufacturers. “We are also examining to what extent these models are suitable for additional use cases within our production network.”

Win-win through knowledge sharing

The University of Zagreb contributes expertise in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science to the project. Ongoing knowledge sharing benefits both partners: The University of Zagreb provides the BMW Group with access to the latest research findings, while its doctoral candidates and students have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice.

Development of young talent

Another aspect of the cooperation is the development of young talent. “Our joint project gets doctoral candidates and students interested in AI and battery cells and the exciting work we do at our Battery Cell Competence Centres,” says Stefan Kerscher, head of Technology Development Battery Cells at the BMW Group. “We are delighted when young talents decide to embark on a career with our company.” The cooperation offers students intensive mentoring and the opportunity to expand their professional network across the industry, enhancing their attractiveness on the job market and opening up outstanding career opportunities. The cooperation between the BMW Group and the University of Zagreb strengthens the innovation capability and competitiveness of both partners.

Battery cell expertise along the entire value chain

The BMW Group consolidates its battery cell know-how at its Competence Centres in Munich, Parsdorf and Salching. The Battery Cell Competence Centre (BCCC) in Munich houses research and development for the battery cells of the future. The best battery concept from the BCCC will be produced under near-series conditions at the Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre (CMCC) in Parsdorf. Close cross-divisional collaboration between Development, Purchasing and Production integrates product and process in a unique way. In addition to producing sample cells, the BMW Group is also focusing its efforts on the reuse of materials. As part of this process, the company has put into service a Cell Recycling Competence Centre (CRCC) in Salching, Lower Bavaria, together with Encory GmbH, which will implement the innovative direct recycling concept. The intellectual property for the recycling method is owned by the BMW Group.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highly efficient production at historic site

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

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

A vision for all technologies: the BMW iFACTORY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unified IT and data model in the production system

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

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

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

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

Humanoid robotics complements existing automation

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

Center of Competence for Physical AI in Production consolidates expertise

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

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

First pilot project with humanoid robots in Europe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional quotes for use:

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

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

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

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

Felix Haeckel, Team Lead CoC Physical AI for Production:

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

Arnaud Robert, President of Hexagon Robotics:

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

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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.

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

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

On the road to series production

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

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

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

Employee training – first virtually, then in the real world

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

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Regensburg. Plant Regensburg achieved a new production record of 356,901 vehicles in 2025, making it the BMW Group’s highest-volume car plant in Europe. Since the plant opened in 1986, 8.7 million vehicles have rolled off its production line. “With this record production, we not only reached a new all-time high in the plant’s 40-year history but also – as in the previous year – helped the BMW Group’s German plants build more than one million vehicles again in 2025,” says Plant Director Armin Ebner. “For 40 years, the plant has been a central development powerhouse for the eastern Bavarian region.”

Continuous efforts to increase competitiveness as key success factor 

“Continuous and consistent efforts to increase our competitiveness remain the key to our success. Every single day in Regensburg, we demonstrate that competitive production is possible in Germany,” adds Ebner. By implementing efficiency measures within its production system, BMW Group Plant Regensburg has lowered costs by more than a quarter since 2019.

“Digitalisation is an important lever for this,” says Ebner. Examples include the use of artificial intelligence in automated surface processing in the paint shop and for quality controls during vehicle assembly, or a cloud-based traffic control system for supplying parts. Since early 2025, new vehicles have also been able to navigate autonomously, without a driver, from the assembly line to the loading area.

More than 150,000 electrified models in 2025

More than 150,000 of the vehicles manufactured in Regensburg in 2025 were electrified – that is, either fully-electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids. The BMW X1 was the highest-volume model, with over 266,000 vehicles produced, while the BMW X2 accounted for more than 90,000 vehicles.

Over 55,000 vehicles remained in the company’s domestic market of Germany. More than half of the cars produced in Regensburg in 2025 went to customers in other European countries. More than 100,000 vehicles were shipped overseas.

Ebner is optimistic about the plant’s anniversary year: “With our attractive BMW X1 and BMW X2 models, we are producing exactly what our customers want, while continuing to operate three shifts around the clock.” Every 57 seconds, a new vehicle rolls off the assembly line. This currently adds up to more than 1,400 vehicles per workday, which are then delivered to customers around the world. Different types of drive train are flexibly manufactured on a single production line – from models with internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids and fully-electric vehicles.

BMW Group Plant Regensburg – powering jobs across the region

As part of the settlement agreement with the City of Regensburg in the 1980s, BMW pledged to produce 400 vehicles per day and create 3,500 jobs. With the ramp-up and expansion of the plant in subsequent years, both employee numbers and production capacity increased: In 1991, the plant exceeded the 100,000-vehicle threshold for the first time, with around 128,000 cars manufactured. By 1999, it was building about 750 vehicles daily and more than 200,000 annually. In 2005, annual production surpassed 300,000 vehicles for the first time – with a daily output of around 1,000 units. Having assembled its one-millionth vehicle back in 1995, Plant Regensburg is set to produce its nine-millionth vehicle this year.

Employee numbers have also continued to climb: In 1988, the plant employed around 3,300 people. By 1991, that number had risen to about 7,300. Today, the BMW Group’s core staff at its Regensburg and Wackersdorf locations in eastern Bavaria comprises around 9,000 employees, including approximately 380 apprentices.

This makes the plant a significant economic factor and employer across the region. Ebner: “Our employees’ commitment, their innovation mindset and their forward-looking decisions have shaped BMW Group Plant Regensburg into what it is today: a driving force and economic engine for the entire region.”

40 years of BMW Group Plant Regensburg – overview of milestones:

1983      Decision, contract signing for establishment of Regensburg site

1984      Groundbreaking with Minister-President Franz-Josef Strauß;
              construction of production halls begins

1985     Topping-out ceremony

1986     Start of production for BMW 3 Series (E30); around 1,300 employees

1987      Paint shop commissioned;
first networked computers in assembly usher in the computer age

1988     Around 3,300 employees

1990      Body shop commissioned

1991      Annual production: around 128,000 vehicles, surpassing the 100,000 mark;
around 7,300 employees

1995      Production milestone: 1,000,000 vehicles manufactured in Regensburg

1997      Press shop completed

1999      Annual production exceeds 200,000 vehicles for the first time;
              more than 8,700 employees

2001      Groundbreaking for plant expansion: paint shop and body shop

2005      Annual production exceeds 300,000 vehicles for the first time

2007      Groundbreaking for press shop expansion

2010      Assembly/finish refurbishment

2013      New press system commissioned

2014      Completion of automated small parts warehouse

2015      EFQM Excellence Award; BMW X1 series launch

2017      West expansion of assembly commissioned

2018     Start of BMW X2 series production

2025      Additional body shop commissioned in Neutraubling

2026      Around 9,000 employees, including approx. 380 apprentices

40 years of BMW Group Plant Regensburg – vehicle models produced:

*Updated: Dec. 2025

BMW Group Corporate Communications
Saskia Graser, head of Communications Regensburg and Wackersdorf +49 151 6060 2014, Email: Saskia.Graser@bmw.de

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

Email: presse@bmw.de

BMW Group Plants Regensburg and Wackersdorf
BMW Group Plant Regensburg has been in operation for more than four decades. After construction of the production halls was completed in 1984, series production of the BMW 3 Series (E30) began in autumn 1986. As part of the settlement agreement with the City of Regensburg, BMW pledged at that time to produce 400 vehicles per day and create 3,500 jobs.

Today, Plant Regensburg is one of more than 30 BMW Group production locations worldwide. More than 1,400 BMW X1 and BMW X2 model vehicles roll off the assembly line each day, destined for customers around the globe. Different types of drive train are flexibly manufactured on a single production line – from models with internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids and fully-electric vehicles.

Within the framework of the BMW iFACTORY, the BMW Group is also setting standards at its Regensburg location in the fields of digitalisation, circularity and competitiveness – as confirmed by recent awards. For example, in 2025, the plant was named “FACTORY OF THE YEAR” in the category “Excellent Large-Series Assembly”. In addition, the BMW X1 from Regensburg was once again voted Best in Class in “Best Cars 2025”. It is already possible to experience, in virtual form, what the factory will look like in the coming years. Production of the “Neue Klasse” – BMW’s next model generation – is set to ramp up in Regensburg in the second half of this decade.

BMW Group Plant Wackersdorf is home to cockpit production and parts supply for overseas plants, and also serves as the door and flap production centre for Rolls-Royce. With its battery testing centre, the site also makes a significant contribution to electromobility.

The BMW Group's core staff at its Regensburg and Wackersdorf locations in eastern Bavaria comprises around 9,000 employees, including approximately 380 apprentices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview of BMW Group production in Germany

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

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*** OnLoc images and Assets of the AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with Alexa+ technology will be added before release on Jan 5th *** 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BMW 3 Series as a driver of growth and internationalisation

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

The BMW 3 Series – an enabler for new plants

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

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

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

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

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Sandra Schillmöller, Head of Communications Production Network BMW Group

Cell phone: +49-151-601-12225

Email: Sandra.Schillmoeller@bmwgroup.com

Martina Hatzel, Communications Production Network BMW Group

Cell phone: +49-151-601-11966

Email: Martina.Hatzel@bmwgroup.com

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

The BMW Group

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

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

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

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

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Munich. 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 latest milestone was the integration of Solid Power’s large-format pure ASSB cells into a BMW i7 technology test vehicle.

As of October 2025, Samsung SDI joins the efforts to pursue development and validation of the ASSB technology in the automotive field. The new collaboration marks a key step towards ASSB technology, bringing together the complementary expertise of three industry leaders.

Under this arrangement, Solid Power will supply sulfide-based solid electrolyte to Samsung SDI, which Samsung SDI will integrate into separator and/or catholyte and use to build cells, in each case subject to achievement of technical requirements.
These cells will be evaluated based on performance parameters and requirements to be agreed between Samsung SDI and BMW Group. Ultimately, Solid Power, Samsung SDI, and BMW aim to develop and supply ASSB cells for integration into a next generation of evaluation vehicles.

 “We are excited to partner with Samsung SDI and BMW to progress the development of all-solid-state batteries,” said John Van Scoter, President and CEO of Solid Power. “Our solid electrolyte technology is designed for stability and conductivity, and by working closely with global leaders in automotive and battery innovation, we strive to bring ASSB technology closer to widespread adoption.”

"Technological competitiveness in batteries would ultimately lead to innovation in electric vehicles," said Stella Joo-Young Go, Executive Vice President of ASSB Commercialization Team at Samsung SDI. "Samsung SDI will work closely with great global partners like BMW and Solid Power to take the lead in commercializing ASSB."

 
Martin Schuster, Vice President Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group, says: “With Samsung SDI joining our partnership with Solid Power, we gain significant momentum on our path advancing the development of new battery cell technologies. This global collaboration is another proof point of our overarching goal: to be always in a position to offer our customers state of the art battery technology.”

The partners believe in the potential of genuine ASSB technology, and the promise of higher energy density combined with increased safety compared to today’s technologies by replacing liquid electrolytes with solid materials.  

With increased energy density, longer vehicle ranges can be achieved without having to accept disadvantages in terms of weight of the overall storage system.

The BMW Group and Solid Power have been cooperating since 2016 through an extended “Joint Development Agreement,” which was supported by a BMW Group 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-state cell prototype line at the CMCC in Parsdorf, on the basis of a research and development license and with Solid Power's experience and expertise.

Since 2008, the BMW Group has been consistently building up its competence in the field of battery cell technology. Since 2019, this know-how has been pooled 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 to producibility.

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

The BMW Group's battery strategy - to operate on equal footing with industry's leading cell manufacturers through deep know-how - has proven its worth. This strategically strong position in the value chain ensures the BMW Group access to all new and innovative battery cell research solutions worldwide.

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Munich. Comfortably rest your hands in your lap and initiate overtaking maneuvers with a glance in the wing mirror – BMW customers will soon be able to experience this in many more European countries with the Motorway Assistant*. The BMW Group is the first car manufacturer in Germany to receive approval for driver assistance systems for the new BMW iX3 in accordance with UN Regulation No. 171 for Driver Control Assistance Systems (DCAS). The DCAS regulation provides an international legal framework for innovative Level 2 driver assistance systems with a focus on customer safety. The approval enables the BMW Group to offer the Motorway Assistant* with Level 2 "hands-off" function in numerous other models and countries in the future, as well as with an extended range of functions. Further innovative assistance functions will also follow for urban driving scenarios. The current generation of the Motorway Assistant has just been awarded the Tech Award in the "Comfort assistance systems" category by the German car magazine "auto motor und sport".

Dr. Mihiar Ayoubi, Senior Vice President Driving Experience Development:

"The safety-oriented DCAS-regulation ensures that we can launch our Motorway Assistant with hands-off function in many more countries. Further innovative assistance systems with our special, symbiotic approach between vehicle and driver will follow. We are creating a perfect interplay between rule-based algorithms and artificial intelligence. The driver remains involved, our systems are controllable at all times, and their behaviour is reproducible."

When the Motorway Assistant is activated, drivers can take their hands off the steering wheel permanently at speeds of up to 130 km/h, but must remain attentive and ready to intervene. The system assists with vehicle guidance within its own lane and can also change lanes automatically if necessary - all the driver needs to do is confirm this with a glance. The new DCAS approval also enables even more extensive functions. With active BMW Maps route guidance, the system suggests a lane change in good time at Motorway junctions and exits, which can be confirmed with a glance in the wing mirror. The Motorway Assistant remains active when driving through freeway junctions and until the end of freeway exits. This means that drivers of the BMW iX3 can enjoy Level 2 driver assistance in even more situations without touching the steering wheel.

The new Motorway and City Assistant* of the BMW iX3 also offers innovative functions for urban areas. At market launch in Germany, these include stopping at red lights and driving off again automatically. Further driver assistance functions for complex driving situations in urban areas will be rolled out at a later point in time via over-the-air software updates.

The Motorway Assistant of the previous technology generation celebrated its premiere in the current 5 Series Sedan in 2023. The BMW Group had received a limited exemption from the Federal Motor Transport Authority in Germany for the approval of the system. With DCAS approval, exemptions are no longer required, and the systems can be offered throughout Europe and in other ECE countries.

BMW Symbiotic Drive: next-generation symbiotic driver assistance.

In addition to the new possibilities offered by the DCAS regulation for driver assistance systems, the BMW Group continues to consistently design its systems so that driver and driver assistance work together symbiotically. BMW Symbiotic Drive creates a seamless transition between assistance and driver input and reaches the next level of development in the “Neue Klasse” vehicles. In addition to symbiotic steering, the BMW iX3 is the world's first model with symbiotic brakes. With active driver assistance, the driver can influence the system individually at any time according to their wishes by lightly intervening in steering and braking without switching off the driver assistance. The system remains active to provide support. The innovative power of the symbiotic brake is underpinned by more than two dozen BMW Group patent applications resulting from the development of these technologies.

* The Highway & City Assistant will be available in Germany for market launch of the BMW iX3. Other countries and functions will follow. The availability, range of functions and system limits of the Highway & City Assistant may vary from country to country.

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Munich. BMW Charging and MINI Charging have partnered with Digital Charging Solutions GmbH (DCS) to present an innovative fleet application that greatly simplifies the monitoring and centralised billing of vehicle charging for companies.

This solution links the charging accounts of the fleet vehicles with a central company account. Charging for each driver is automatically invoiced and consolidated into one payment for the company. Fleet drivers can take advantage of the same features, tariffs and brand experiences as private customers.

The introduction of this new fleet solution from BMW Charging and MINI Charging marks another milestone in the electrification of corporate fleets. Specially designed for small and medium-sized companies with up to 50 electric vehicles, it provides an efficient and user-friendly charging solution – and features a central overview that shows all charging sessions and combines them into a single invoice. Businesses benefit from a solution with no setup costs that offers automatic reimbursement for fleet drivers. 

Implementing the fleet solution is quick and straightforward. First, fleet managers create a company account with CHARGE NOW to register their company. Then fleet drivers create a business customer account including a charging contract with BMW Charging or MINI Charging and activate the option for bill payment by the company. Finally, the fleet manager links the driver accounts to the company account, enabling centralized and automated billing. 

This solution optimises charging cost management for electric fleets, reduces the administrative workload and improves cost transparency.

Fleet managers benefit from consolidated invoicing for all charging sessions as well as a central dashboard for monitoring up to 50 vehicles from different brands.

Fleet drivers, meanwhile, enjoy a consistent user experience offering the same functions (e.g. Plug & Charge), tariffs and brand experiences provided for private customers – thanks to seamless integration in the vehicle and the My BMW App or MINI App.

Once activated, charging sessions are automatically paid by the company, without any need for private advance payments or manual refunds. 

The solution was launched in August of this year in eleven European markets: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. They were followed in September by Sweden, Norway, Poland, Czechia, Denmark, Slovakia, Hungary and Finland. 

Further information can be found via the following link:
CHARGE NOW | Fleet Solution | United Kingdom 

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

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

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

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

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

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jochen Müller, Communications BMW Group Plant Leipzig

Mobile: +49-(0)151-60743152

Email: Jochen.Mueller@bmw.de

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

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

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

Email: Kai.Lichte@bmwgroup.com

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Debrecen. With an impressive ceremony that artistically combined Hungarian culture and modern automotive production, Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, today officially opened the BMW Group plant in Debrecen. The BMW Group’s newest and most innovative production site marks the beginning of a new era for the company. In late October, the new BMW iX3 will enter series production in the Hungarian university town of Debrecen as the first vehicle of the Neue Klasse. Plant Debrecen was planned virtually and realised in practice fully in line with the principles of the BMW iFACTORY, becoming the first BMW Group car plant to rely entirely on electricity from renewable energy during normal operation.

In addition to Oliver Zipse, high-ranking representatives from Hungarian politics, such as Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and the Mayor of Debrecen, László Papp, as well as Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management for Production, Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management for Human Resources and Real Estate, and Hans-Peter Kemser, President and CEO BMW Manufacturing Hungary Kft., attended the grand opening.

“In our global production network, our new plant in Debrecen is a pioneer: It is our first fully-electric plant, the first production site to operate entirely without fossil fuels – and the first to build vehicles for the Neue Klasse. This makes our plant in Debrecen a decisive factor in the BMW Group's future success,” said Oliver Zipse. “The opening also sends a strong signal: We are expanding our footprint on our home continent and reaffirming our commitment to Europe as a strong and competitive location for industry.”

Hans-Peter Kemser added at the ceremony: “This is not only a new BMW Group plant – it is a cornerstone of progress. We are a partner to culture, to education and to the University of Debrecen, where together we foster the talents that will shape the future. And above all, it is a community – deeply embedded in the life of Debrecen and Hungary.”

Strengthening the industrial base and expanding training

The official opening ceremony began with a look back at the plant’s construction, following a 2018 decision that launched one of Hungary’s largest greenfield investments. The BMW Group’s first Central European location has firmly placed Debrecen on the region's automotive map, creating more than 2,000 direct jobs – and many more along the supply chain, at regional suppliers and service providers that have recently established themselves in Debrecen, alongside national and international companies. The new plant has also strengthened the industrial park and driven additional investment in transport and infrastructure.

At the same time, through collaborations with institutions such as the local university and the Vocational Training Centre of Debrecen, DSZC, Plant Debrecen has also become one of the largest training hubs for dual education programmes in Hungary.

Only the best of the best for Debrecen

Plant Debrecen is the first BMW Group production site not tied to a specific primary plant. Instead, it serves as a network plant, combining best practices from different locations worldwide. For example, the press shop is modelled on the systems used in Spartanburg (USA) and Swindon (Great Britain), with their know-how and technologies further refined for Debrecen. In the body shop, the positioning of nearly 1,000 industrial robots, along with their processes, was digitally simulated in detail beforehand. The number of joining methods was also significantly reduced, with further streamlining allowing design features for the Neue Klasse to be integrated early in development.

Paint shop key to largest reduction in CO₂e emissions

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

About a quarter of the plant's annual power needs will be supplied by the 50‑hectare on-site photovoltaic system, one of the largest in Hungary. Surplus solar energy, such as that generated on non-working days, is stored in a 1,800 m³ thermal storage system with a capacity of 130 MWh.

Digitalised assembly processes and smart “finger structure”

Complete digitalisation of production processes further boosts assembly efficiency – for example, sensors and camera systems along the production line are used to automate quality processes. AI evaluates the data and provides real-time feedback to employees on the assembly line. The building's “finger structure” – an optimised version of BMW Group Plant Leipzig – allows 80% of parts to be delivered directly to the correct point of assembly on the line. In-house logistics are fully electric.

High-voltage battery assembly in line with “local for local” principle

High-voltage batteries are assembled directly on site, allowing for short distances in line with the “local for local” principle. Plant Debrecen will be the first of five plants worldwide to begin series production of Gen6 high-voltage batteries at this location. Seamless in-line quality inspections and 100% end‑of‑line monitoring enable a consistent zero-defect approach.

Final photo with employees and two BMW iX3s

The opening ceremony concluded with a music and dance performance celebrating Hungarian culture and traditions, which the BMW Group also supports through local events and organisations. To wrap up, numerous employees joined Viktor Orbán and Oliver Zipse on stage, alongside two new BMW iX3s.

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

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

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

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

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

From virtual factory to reality

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

Optimal processes for all plant technologies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Technological expertise at the BMW Group in Munich

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

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

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

Series production at BMW Group Plant Steyr

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

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

Component manufacture at BMW Group Plant Landshut

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

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

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Munich. The high-voltage battery is a vital component of every electric vehicle. With the high-voltage batteries for the sixth generation (Gen6) of BMW eDrive, the BMW Group has made a big step in technology, delivering major improvements in energy density, charging speed and range. In readiness for series production, the BMW Group is currently building five assembly sites across three continents: in Irlbach-Straßkirchen (Lower Bavaria), Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico) and Woodruff (USA). Before the series launch, production processes will be developed and tested at the BMW Group’s pilot plants for high-voltage batteries in Parsdorf and Hallbergmoos, and at the Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich. As a data scientist and IT project manager, Patrick Zimmermann is responsible for implementing the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and data analytics in the high-voltage battery production of the BMW Group. His role is to weave all relevant software strands together.

Patrick, what do you do as a data scientist and IT project manager in high-voltage battery production?

Patrick Zimmermann (PZ): I coordinate an interdisciplinary team that oversees the entire data processing chain: from data provision at the manufacturing facilities to edge applications that transfer our production data to the cloud and to analytics platforms.

What kind of expertise do you need for that?

PZ: First and foremost, the job requires a solid understanding of the technologies used to manufacture our high-voltage batteries. For this latest generation, which uses the new cylindrical round cells, we’ve developed a completely new production process. Of course, strong IT knowledge is also essential – with a clear focus on the software architectures behind the data analytics and artificial intelligence. Understanding the individual software modules and interfaces is crucial for choosing the right solutions for our production from the wide range of technologies and applications available.

This means you always have your finger on the pulse and can anticipate IT trends?

PZ: Data analytics and AI for production are evolving at a tremendous pace right now. That's why it’s important to keep an eye on new approaches and evaluate whether they’re suitable for BMW. Or whether they could even replace existing solutions – perhaps by offering lower costs or enhanced features. Not every analysis or AI solution that performs well in a particular industry or use case can be directly applied to battery production.

Production of Gen6 high-voltage batteries is groundbreaking for the BMW Group. What, in your opinion, makes this project unique?

PZ: One unique aspect is the end-to-end responsibility – from data provision and data transfer to the cloud, all the way through to selective and even continuous analyses. We process both numerical data and visual representations from the equipment. Throughout the process, we maintain a consistent zero-defect approach to producing our high-voltage batteries. Highly intelligent, AI-supported quality checks are integrated into the production process to help us achieve this. We rely on OPC UA interface technology for plant connectivity. This enables us to model standardised digital twins directly at our plants, eliminating the need for additional data processing. Data is transferred to the BMW Group's clouds, using the same data structure across all production sites. This allows us to roll out standardised analysis dashboards worldwide and, for example, implement process optimisations more rapidly. We’ve already established this IT architecture at our high-voltage battery pilot plants. We have now been able to transfer our analysis dashboards to the first series production plants with minimal effort.

Entire new plants and assembly halls are being built for production of the new Gen6 high-voltage batteries. Is this beneficial for the IT structure?

PZ: Absolutely! Building several plants for Gen6 high-voltage batteries on greenfield sites gives us a whole new level of design freedom. This allows for much bigger leaps in IT, compared to integrating new solutions into existing plants – a so-called brownfield. I, for one, find it really exciting to help shape the Industrial Internet of Things and data analytics on such a large scale right from the start.

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+++ Faster, more efficient transition from gas to alternative energy sources possible +++ Pilot project will save around 480 tons of CO2e per year +++

Regensburg. As it transitions from natural gas to renewable energy, the BMW Group is gradually electrifying its paint shops as part of its efforts to decarbonise vehicle production. A recently concluded pilot project at Plant Regensburg demonstrates how this transition can be simplified and accelerated. The key lies in the installation of a thermal oil system. Using thermal oil as a heat transfer medium enables heat generation to be decoupled from the rest of the system’s components. This allows the energy supply to the coating lines to be adapted flexibly at any time.

“One advantage of switching to thermal oil is the flexibility to choose the energy source for heat generation in our paint shops. For example, thermal oil can be heated using electricity, geothermal energy, solar thermal energy – or even a hydrogen-powered heating system. The ability to change fuels quickly at any time makes our paint shops more resilient. If an energy source becomes scarce or unavailable, we can respond at short notice,” explains Samuel Flieger, project manager for technical planning in the Regensburg paint shop.

This means paint shops can already be set up to run on renewable energy – even if gas-free heating is not yet an option. The power grid is not currently equipped at all locations to handle the high energy demands of a fully electrified paint shop, largely due to its extremely energy-intensive drying processes. A thermal oil-based system can also be operated with gas as an interim solution.

Testing successfully concluded in Regensburg

The Regensburg pilot project team took advantage of the production downtime over the New Year period to install the thermal oil technology. Within just a few days, they replaced the gas-powered drying equipment used for one of the three top coat lines with an electrically heated thermal oil system – complete with an innovative electric-powered eRTO exhaust air unit.

The key innovation lies in using the new electric heating unit to transfer heat to the thermal oil, instead of directly heating the air around the car bodies in the drying chamber after paint application. The heated oil circulates in a closed loop and, in a second step, heats the air in the drying chamber via heat exchangers. The circulating thermal oil reaches temperatures of several hundred degrees Celsius. Unlike water, it remains stable even at these high temperatures.

Retrofitting boosts energy efficiency

Wherever waste heat is generated, it is recovered and reused as process heat. This reduces the temperature of the exhaust air released through the hall's roof. As a result of these retrofitting measures, the drying equipment’s total energy consumption has been reduced by approximately 40 percent. Switching to thermal oil heating, combined with the system's improved energy efficiency, will reduce the carbon footprint of BMW Group Plant Regensburg’s paint shop by approximately 480 tons of CO₂e per year.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Christian Dürrschmidt, Communications Regensburg
Cell phone: +49 151 6060 5194,
Email: Christian.Duerrschmidt@bmw.de
 
Saskia Graser, head of Communications Regensburg and Wackersdorf
Cell phone: +49 151 6060 2014,
Email: Saskia.Graser@bmw.de
 
Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmw.de

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

BMW Group Plant Regensburg was recognised as “FACTORY OF THE YEAR” 2024 in the category “excellent large-series assembly” of the prestigious industrial competition. As it implements the so-called BMW iFACTORY, the BMW Group is focused on digitalisation of the Regensburg plant site to create a digital and intelligently connected factory. It is already possible to experience in virtual form what the factory will look like a few years from now. Production of models for the NEUE KLASSE, BMW’s next generation of vehicles, will ramp up in Regensburg in the second half of the decade.

The BMW Group plant in Wackersdorf is home to cockpit production and parts supply for overseas plants. With the opening of a new battery testing centre and commissioning of the first phase in autumn 2024, the location also makes a significant contribution to electromobility. An entirely new area of expertise is the door and flap centre for Rolls-Royce.

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

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

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Munich. The new BMW iX3 demonstrates the BMW Group's take on implementing a holistic approach to product sustainability across the entire life cycle. During product development, extensive measures were implemented throughout the supply chain, production and use phases, explicitly focused on conserving resources and reducing the model’s environmental footprint. As such, the Neue Klasse marks an important milestone toward achieving the company's 2030 and 2050 CO₂e targets.
 
CO₂e benefits achievable after only one year of use
The extensive decarbonization measures in the supply chain results in an early break-even point: when charged with electricity from the European energy mix, the CO₂e footprint of the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive is lower than that of a comparable model with a combustion engine after about 21,500 kilometers (WLTP combined). When charged exclusively with electricity from renewable sources, the BMW iX3 50 xDrive beats the comparable ICE model after only 17,500 kilometers (WLTP combined), allowing customers to potentially achieve CO₂e benefits in as little as one year.

Decarbonization in the supply chain
The key levers to reduce CO₂e emissions in the supply chain are the use of secondary materials and renewable energy, alongside product and process innovations. This combination of measures has led to a decrease of CO₂e emissions in the supply chain of 35% during product development.
The Gen6 battery cells of the BMW iX3 high-voltage storage system are made of 50% secondary cobalt, lithium, and nickel materials. In addition, renewable energies are harnessed in the anode and cathode materials and cell production. This is how CO₂e emissions per watt hour were reduced by 42% compared to the Gen5 cell of the previous model.

The BMW Group is increasingly focused on the use of innovative and secondary materials in other components as well. 
For instance, 30% of the secondary raw material  used for the engine compartment cover and the storage compartment under the front hatch is recycled maritime plastic. This post-consumer material consists of old fishing nets and ropes, preventing these materials from potentially being dumped in the ocean.
Secondary aluminum accounts for 80% of the wheel carriers and swivel bearings as well as 70% of the cast aluminum wheels.

‘Design for Circularity’: consistent implementation in the Neue Klasse 
The BMW Group applied the ‘Design for Circularity’ approach consistently in developing the BMW iX3. The approach builds on the concepts of secondary first (the prioritized use of secondary materials), strategic material selection and disassembly optimization. As a result, secondary materials account for one third of all material used in the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive.
One example of implementing these three concepts is the Econeer seat cover, available in the interior trim Essential, whose fabric, adhesive and fleece are all made from PET. This mono-material choice increases recyclability. Moreover, the textile yarn used consists entirely of recycled PET as well.
Other components whose development followed the ‘Design for Circularity’ approach include the center console, instrument panel and interior floor trim.

Significantly improved efficiency in the use phase    
BMW EfficientDynamics involves consistently identifying and harnessing efficiency potential in all vehicle subsystems. Applying this approach, the energy consumption of the new BMW iX3 is 20% lower than in the predecessor model (WLTP combined).
This significant improvement is primarily based on optimized aerodynamic properties, reduced rolling resistance and on-board power consumption as well as the drive’s unparalleled combination of efficiency and dynamics. 

Sustainability-centric production at BMW Group’s Debrecen plant
Designed and built according to the BMW iFactory principles, the new BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary, is fully focused on efficiency, digitalization and sustainability. It is the first BMW Group car factory that is operated and produces vehicles without using fossil fuels, such as oil and gas, under normal operating conditions.
The only energy source to power operations at the site is electricity. According to current planning, up to 25% of the plant's annual electricity needs can be covered by the photovoltaic system located on the premises. The remaining electricity is obtained from other renewable energy sources. Surplus solar energy is stored in a heat storage unit and used to heat the paint shop ovens as needed.
Only 0.1 tons of CO₂e are emitted in the production of a BMW iX3 car, about two third below production at other BMW Group plants.

The BMW Group’s sustainability targets
The BMW Group's commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to achieving Net Zero by 2050 or earlier is an integral part of the comprehensive 360° sustainability approach incorporated in the corporate strategy. The company is pursuing ambitious, scientifically derived CO₂e targets for the coming years. For instance, the BMW Group intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by at least 40 million tons in 2030 (baseline: 2019).

Publicly accessible, TÜV-verified Product Carbon Footprint 
For years, the BMW Group has released its vehicle footprint, which includes a greenhouse gas report for its vehicles verified by Germany’s TÜV Technical Inspection Association. The report for the new BMW iX3 50 xDRIVE can be downloaded here and is also available in the My BMW app. It offers increased transparency regarding raw materials used and CO₂e emissions over the entire vehicle lifecycle.

^{All information regarding the BMW iX3 50 xDrive’s mileage, energy consumption, range, energy content, dimensions, weights, share of secondary raw materials/recycled materials and other technical data and derivations thereof are provisional as of the start of production in November 2025.}

^{All model variants, equipment levels, technical data, fuel consumption and emission data mentioned correspond to the range offered in the German car market, provided the respective model is available there. Deviations in other markets are possible. Dimensions refer to the base model available in Germany; depending on wheel and tire size as well as optional equipment selected, dimensions may vary depending on the specific configuration.}

^{Power consumption and range data were measured in accordance with the mandatory WLTP procedures and comply with the German Passenger Car Energy Consumption Labelling Ordinance (EnVKV). For more information, see www.bmw.de}

^{If you have any questions, please contact:}

^{BMW Group Corporate Communications
Dr. Cornelia Bovensiepen, Spokesperson Sustainability BMW Group
Phone: +49 89 382-94935
E-Mail: Cornelia.Bovensiepen@bmw.de
   
Sofia Elena Rizzi, Spokesperson Product Communications BMW Compact & Mid-size Segments
Phone: +49-151-601-67436
E-Mail: Sofia-Elena.Rizzi@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 services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.}

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

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

^{www.bmwgroup.com 
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup} 

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

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

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

Comprehensive improvements to electric engine
The electric engine has undergone significant further development for Gen6: The rotor, stator and power converter have all been holistically designed for the Gen6 technology’s new 800-volt architecture, maximising performance capabilities and the efficiency of the drive system. Improvements in geometry and cooling, along with reduced friction, optimise 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 engine housing, the power converter converts direct current from the high-voltage battery into alternating current for the electric engine.

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


If you have any questions, please contact:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the event of enquiries please contact:                                                                   

Corporate Communications

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

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

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

E-mail: presse@bmw.de



The BMW Group

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

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

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

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


If you have any questions, please contact:

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

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

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

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Munich/Beijing. BMW Group is expanding its footprint in China’s digital innovation landscape with a new partnership focused exclusively on the Chinese market.

In collaboration with Momenta, a leading Chinese ADAS technology provider, BMW will co-develop advanced driver assistance solutions specifically for the BMW product portfolio offered in China – starting with Neue Klasse.

The cooperation builds on the BMW driving philosophy, combining Intelligent Interaction, Control and ADAS for the maximum benefit of the driver in all situations.

 Dr. Mihiar Ayoubi, Senior Vice President, Driving Experience, BMW Group:
“This collaboration of partners sharing the same mindset, will enable us to offer our customers in China a very unique automated driving experience.
We are combining 20+ years of pioneering safety with locally trained driving knowledge and state of the art Chinese AI technology.“

Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China, adds:
“This expands BMW's collaboration with Chinese tech players from digital ecosystems and AI based user interaction into the realm of the ADAS domain.”

The focus of the partnership is software development and integration specifically for Chinese road-networks, traffic-conditions and user expectations, utilising advanced AI algorithms and data driven development methods.

In the event of enquiries please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Bernhard Ederer

Communication Drive Technology, Driving Experience, Efficient Dynamics

Mobile: +49-176-601-28556

E-mail: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com

Almut Stollberg

Head of Communication Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital Car

Mobile: +49-151-601-96543

E-mail: almut.stollberg@bmw.de

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

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

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

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

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


If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

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

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

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

^{Dodatne informacije so na voljo spodaj in v priponki v anleščini.} 

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

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

Knowledge discovery tool

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

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

Collaborative in-house development

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

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

Transferable methodology

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

If you have any questions, please contact:

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

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

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BMW is spotlighting six digital features in its global innovation campaign. With its mixture of high-tech and humour, the campaign shows how these technologies make drivers’ everyday lives significantly more comfortable as well as safer. So far, BMW has published entertaining short videos about the BMW Digital Key/ BMW Digital Key Plus on the Apple Watch, the Motorway Assistant, Remote Control Parking and BMW Curve-Ahead View. Two further films are due to follow – all of them featuring unusual situations unlikely to be covered by any manual.

Munich. Over the course of six creative social media films, BMW demonstrates how modern technology takes the driving experience to a new level. The BMW innovation campaign underscores the brand’s premium appeal – and features the tongue-in-cheek humour that has become a BMW hallmark. The films tell short stories in which digital features are not only helpers, but sometimes even become friendly accomplices. Also in starring roles: the BMW i5, BMW iX, BMW X1, BMW X3 and BMW X5, representing the wide range of digital features offered by many BMW model series.

“The BMW innovation campaign is about our promise to combine technology and driving pleasure in a unique way. We use humour to show how our digital features don’t just assist drivers but become faithful companions in everyday life,” says Bernd Körber, Senior Vice President BMW Brand and Product Management.

Benefits of advanced technology, explained in a charming and entertaining way.
The BMW Digital Key or BMW Digital Key Plus replaces the physical vehicle key. The feature also enables owners to use an Apple Watch to unlock, start and lock their vehicle. This is a major plot element in the short film called “Tight”. The protagonist really does not have room for a vehicle key in his tight trousers, so he uses his Apple Watch in order to start his BMW X3 for a night out. Intelligent technology ensures that the size of his pockets does not limit his freedom.

The motorway assistant offers automated driving at Level 2+ and is a highlight in the range of BMW driver assistance systems. On motorways and dual carriageways, it provides active steering assistance at speeds of up to 130 km/h. A particularly innovative feature is the Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation, available in selected markets. Drivers always remain responsible, but they are able to take their hands off the wheel at certain times. This comes in very handy indeed in the short film titled “Mustache”. Sitting at the wheel of his BMW i5, the driver uses the motorway assistant so he can twirl the ends of his mustache into shape with his fingertips and put on his sunglasses, for maximum cool factor.

The campaign’s “Top Dog” film features a deliveryman who comes across an unbelievable scene: a dog sitting at the wheel of a BMW X5 smoothly steers the vehicle backwards out of a garage, a look of intense concentration on its face. But this feat is actually the result of human and artificial intelligence: the owner is controlling the car from outside via her smartphone – using the My BMW app’s Remote Control Parking function. This enables the driver to perform precise parking manoeuvres from outside the vehicle, so tight garages or narrow parking spaces are no longer a problem. The amazing scene is in fact another example of intelligent BMW technology making everyday life easier.

Small break, great fun.
In-car gaming can lead to surprising results – as the BMW innovation campaign shows in the short film titled “Race”. A businessman is enjoying a relaxed break while recharging the battery of his BMW i5 when the driver of a muscle car suddenly appears and challenges him to a race. However, the contest does not take place on the road, but in virtual reality, on the BMW Curved Display in the BMW i5 – using smartphones as controllers. What follows is an unusual showdown in a casual game. In the end, the rival’s stylish sunglasses go to the driver of the BMW i5, as a victory trophy. But the in-car gaming feature is a lot of fun, even when there are no strangers issuing challenges. In multiplayer mode, up to four people can play at the same time. The BMW Group partners with the AirConsole gaming platform for its in-car gaming support. 

Digital solutions – in the right place and at the right time.
Sometimes it’s good to know what lies ahead, even if you can’t see it yet. That’s exactly what the BMW Curve-Ahead View in the BMW X1 is designed for: it recognises upcoming bends and highlights them in colour on the BMW Head-Up Display. In addition, the driver receives real-time feedback on their current speed – both before and during a bend. This makes for a better sense of control while also increasing safety and driving comfort.

The film “Fish” provides a charming demonstration of how useful this can be in practice: a BMW X1 is carrying moving boxes – and in the middle of it all is a goldfish in a transport bag, on its way to a new home. A winding road lies ahead, and right next to the vulnerable passenger is a box full of bristling cactus spines ... BMW Curve-Ahead View is available for all BMW models equipped with Operating System 9 and BMW Digital Premium.

Understands every word: intelligent BMW technology.
The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is the digital point of contact in all new BMW models. It understands natural language, answers questions, explains vehicle functions and – depending on the situation – can become a humorous companion or even a co-conspirator. As in the film “Bye, Honey”, in which the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant aids and abets a mom driving a BMW iX. She tries in vain to engage her daughter in a conversation. Even a dramatic countdown – “5, 4 ...” – with the tongue-in-cheek request to activate the ejector seat elicits no response. Only when the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant matter-of-factly continues “3, 2, 1 ...” does the daughter suddenly prick up her ears and turn to her mother, alarmed. The mystery is quickly solved. “It was just a joke,” the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant explains – and immediately adds a suitable route recommendation to the nearest burger restaurant. 

The BMW innovation campaign was launched on 26 May. Click here to see the films published to date.

In case of queries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de


Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de


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

E-mail: presse@bmw.de


The BMW Group

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

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

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

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

^{Dodatne informacije so na voljo spodaj in v priponki v angleščini.} 

Munich. The BMW Group is industrialising its Virtual Factory, with production planners continuously scaling applications in the digital twins of over 30 production sites to accelerate production planning worldwide. What once required several weeks of real-world modifications and testing can now be precisely simulated in the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory. To create optimal conditions for upcoming launches at the plants, the BMW Group will integrate more than 40 new or updated vehicles into its global production between now and 2027. This will first be done virtually to ensure immediate stability at the plants. Going forward, the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory is projected to reduce production planning costs by up to 30 percent.

Virtual planning is a core element of the BMW Group iFACTORY and involves a wide range of tools. The intelligent linking of building data, equipment data, logistics data, vehicle data and even 3D simulation of manual work processes creates digital twins of all BMW Group plants worldwide. In an industrial 3D metaverse application based on NVIDIA Omniverse, simulations can be performed in real time, enabling virtual optimisation of layouts, robotics and logistics systems. The BMW Group’s Virtual Factory is continuously expanding to incorporate generative and agentic AI functionalities and assistants.

Digital, automated, fast: Collision checks for new vehicle models

For every launch, it is essential to verify that the new product fits on the production line and does not collide with its surroundings at any point. In the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory, this collision check is digital, automated and fast, using construction data combined with 3D scans. The movement and rotation of a vehicle through the production lines are precisely simulated, allowing the system to automatically check for possible collisions. What now takes just three days to simulate virtually previously required almost four weeks of real testing.

In the past, a real vehicle body had to be manually guided through the production lines – often over several weekends – to identify potential collisions. In the paint shop, this process sometimes required completely emptying and cleaning the dip coating tanks where vehicle bodies are submerged for priming. The costs and time investment for this were enormous.

Growing number of scalable applications

The BMW Group's Virtual Factory is rapidly evolving, enabling an increasing number of applications to be scaled. In addition to virtual, automated collision checks, this includes human simulation to optimise manual production steps and automated identification of maps of the surroundings from existing 3D scans for smart transport systems.

Learn more about the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory at NVIDIA GTC Paris:

Thursday, 12 June 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. CEST.

Accelerating Automotive Innovation with Accelerated Computing, Digital Twins and AI by the BMW Group.

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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.