BMW has announced an expansion of its global production network for next-generation high-voltage batteries, a crucial step in supporting the upcoming Neue Klasse fully electric vehicles (EVs).

In detail, BMW is establishing five new battery production plants across three continents, highlighting a “local for local” strategy to improve production resilience and reduce carbon footprint. According to BMW, the new battery assembly plants will be located in Irlbach-Strasskirchen (Lower Bavaria, Germany), Debrecen (Hungary), Woodruff (United States), Shenyang (China), and San Luis Potosí (Mexico).

As for the Neue Klasse EVs, set to launch in 2025, they will be the first to incorporate BMW’s all-new cylindrical cells. These cells promise improved energy density, faster charging times, and extended range. The production timeline for Neue Klasse EVs begins with the new plant in Debrecen, Hungary, in 2025, followed by expansion to China in 2026 and Mexico in 2027 according to BMW.

In Germany, the new plant in Irlbach-Strasskirchen, Lower Bavaria, will supply batteries to local car plants. With Construction already underway, the production building is scheduled to be enclosed by the end of the year. As for the United States (U.S.), the new Plant Woodruff in South Carolina will support the Spartanburg plant by assembling batteries for EVs, creating over 300 new jobs.

Furthermore, BMW is upgrading existing sites to secure and create jobs while enhancing production capabilities. In China, the BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) plant in Shenyang completed its production hall in November 2023, with machinery installation ongoing since March 2024. The San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico is undergoing substantial expansion including the addition of a high-voltage battery assembly plant and enlargement of existing plants.

In addition, research and development efforts are focused at the Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre (CMCC) in Parsdorf and the Battery Cell Competence Centre (BCCC) in Munich. These plants are critical for developing and scaling up prototype battery cells for the Neue Klasse EVs.

Notably, these announcements arrive as BMW recently reported a surge in EV sales for the first half of 2024, delivering 179,557 fully EVs globally. This results in a 34.1% increase compared to the same period last year. With the company making more plans for its EV strategy with this expansion, it’s reaching new heights in the EV industry.

Read More: BMW Surge With 34.1% In Global EV Sales For First Half Of 2024

As a result, this expansive investment in global battery production plants spotlights BMW’s goal of leading the transition to electric mobility. By localizing production and integrating advanced technology, BMW is seeking to set new standards for traditional automakers in the EV market.

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