BMW Unveils AI-Driven Blueprint to Convert Munich Plant to All-Electric Production
BMW’s Munich Assembly Plant to Operate Exclusively With Electric Vehicles From 2027
What’s Involved
- The historic factory will shut down production of internal‑combustion models.
- All future vehicles built there will feature battery‑electric propulsion.
- The switch aligns with the company’s broader e‑mobility strategy.
The Significance of the Move
Strategic impact: This transition marks a pivotal shift for BMW, placing the Munich plant at the forefront of the electric‑vehicle transition and reinforcing its commitment to cleaner mobility solutions.
Projected Outcomes
- Enhanced sustainability across the product line.
- Increased investment in electric‑drive technology and manufacturing expertise.
- Strengthened position in the rapidly expanding global EV market.
BMW Unveils €650 Million Shift Toward an Electric Future
Berlin’s flagship BMW AG has announced a massive investment that will transform its Munich production hub into a fully electric plant. The €650 million project has already kicked off construction on a new assembly line and body shop, enabled by the pause of internal‑combustion engine manufacturing in 2023 and the relocation of those operations abroad.
“Munich is the beating heart of BMW”
Peter Weber, director of the Munich plant, stressed that the city remains central to the company’s strategy. “We are excited to steer the Munich facility towards a fully electric future, beginning with the new Neue Klasse sedan,” he said.
Neue Klasse: A Revolutionary Rebirth
The Neue Klasse name, originally launched in the 1960s, is being revitalised for the electric era. In the next two years, BMW will introduce six electrified models:
- an SUV built in Debrecen, Hungary
- the first Neue Klasse sedan, produced in Munich
- additional models to be manufactured in China, Mexico, and Hungary
Hungary will also supply high‑voltage batteries that support the new 800 V fast‑charging architecture.
Flexibility Beyond Electric
Board member Milan Nedeljković emphasised the plant’s readiness to adopt alternative energy solutions. “Hydrogen remains a vital option,” he stated. “We currently test hydrogen vehicles and are intensifying research to advance the technology. Keeping our facilities adaptable to hydrogen and other future powertrains is essential.”
He added that no investment will be made in internal combustion engines unless new variants arise, yet the assembly line remains designed to accommodate any future technology.
Digitalisation and AI: Empowering the Workforce
Peter Weber highlighted how BMW’s iFactory principle is redefining production. Artificial intelligence (AI) is already embedded at Munich, supporting rather than replacing the 7,800 staff.
“During a shift, many workers handle about 500 vehicles,” Weber explained. “To maintain premium quality, every employee must master their procedures. Digital tools are the key to ensuring our people deliver the highest standards.”
- Apprentices now use augmented reality to practice welding techniques before touching metal.
- AI‑powered transport robots navigate more safely and efficiently.
- Digitalisation, through AI, equips our workforce with additional insights, reinforcing our processes.
“Our fundamental belief is that AI and digitalisation should enhance human capabilities and bolster our manufacturing excellence,” concluded Weber.
Next Steps
The Munich plant will continue to evolve as a multifaceted facility, ready for electric, hydrogen, or other emerging power solutions. The €650 million investment signals BMW’s ongoing confidence in its Bavarian roots while embracing a forward‑looking, flexible production model.
