Construction of the BMW Group’s high-voltage battery assembly plant is proceeding according to plan.
One year ago, in April 2024, the company received planning permission for its new site in Lower Bavaria. 12 months later, the central production building is already in place.
Technical equipment installation has progressed to such a degree that production machinery can begin to be installed as scheduled in June.
Sabrina Kugler, project leader for the plant’s development, states: “The project’s success lies in the excellent collaboration – both within the BMW Group team and with all partner companies. This is especially crucial for such a time-sensitive project.”
The high speed of implementation is based on the principles of Lean Construction Management.
This approach meticulously schedules and continuously assesses the complex interaction of all trades, including dependencies and potential impacts.
Silvia Meyer, project leader for construction, facility management, and site safety, explains: “Lean Construction Management serves as a shared communication platform that creates the basis for transparency and finding solutions when challenges arise.”
“Local for Local” Principle for High-Voltage Battery Assembly and Supplier Network
The new site in Lower Bavaria is one of five new global assembly plants for sixth-generation (Gen6) high-voltage batteries.
Alongside Irlbach-Straßkirchen, the BMW Group is also building state-of-the-art battery assembly plants in Debrecen (Hungary), Shenyang (China), San Luis Potosí (Mexico), and Woodruff near Spartanburg (USA).
The company is following its “Local for Local” principle by producing this key technology close to the respective vehicle plants.
Existing locations are being strengthened, and jobs are being secured and created.
Global Knowledge Sharing – Learning from Each Other
All five global battery production sites are currently under construction.
Series production will start later this year in Debrecen, Hungary.
These batteries will power the first production model of the Neue Klasse, the new BMW iX3, which will make its world debut at the IAA Mobility in September.
The ramp-up in Debrecen also involves staff from Dingolfing – experienced specialists contributing their knowledge from previous battery assembly generations.
These same experts will help launch series production next year in Irlbach-Straßkirchen.
Installation of the production equipment in the central assembly building there will begin in June, right on schedule.
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