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The BMW Group has completed the installation of all 1,066 pillars for its new high-voltage battery assembly plant in Irlbach-Strasskirchen, Bavaria. The plant is set to produce sixth-generation high-voltage batteries for BMW’s Neue Klasse models, supporting e-mobility expansion across multiple production facilities. Despite weather challenges, construction remains on track, with production expected to start in 2026.
Key Highlights:
- 1,066 pillars completed for the high-voltage battery assembly plant in Irlbach-Strasskirchen.
- The site will manufacture sixth-generation batteries for the Neue Klasse models.
- Around 1,600 jobs will be created once the facility is fully operational.
- Digital planning and cross-functional collaboration are aiding rapid global construction progress.
Construction Progress and Plant Features
The final concrete pillar for BMW’s new assembly plant for high-voltage batteries was put in place just 16 weeks after the start of construction in June. Prefabricated elements, including fire-, interior-, and exterior walls, as well as stairwells, have already been installed. Concrete ceilings, roof structures, and seals are completed, while preparations are underway for the installation of facade elements. Despite challenging weather conditions, the construction team has managed to keep the project on schedule.
The plant will produce sixth-generation high-voltage batteries for BMW’s Neue Klasse and will initially employ around 1,600 people. Located in Lower Bavaria, this facility will supply batteries to the Munich, Regensburg, and Dingolfing vehicle plants, strengthening BMW’s e-mobility production capacity and ensuring employment in the region.
Digital Collaboration for Efficient Construction
Silvia Meyer, Head of High-Voltage Battery Real Estate Management, highlighted the role of digital construction planning and collaboration across locations. “Cooperation across locations helps us a lot to implement the five similar construction projects worldwide at high speed. We benefit from the experience of projects with different degrees of progress. Beside us, our colleagues, who plan the assembly process and logistics, are already using digital production planning. It helps all of us. We identify interfaces at an early stage and discuss solutions in virtual space and can counteract potential collisions at an early stage.”
This digital approach involves simulating all processes, including transitions between assembly stages, helping to ensure timely provision of required parts and coordination of space for interim storage. Such planning also considers technical connections and free space needed for plant maintenance.
Construction of Side Buildings and Timeline
In addition to the main building, construction of side buildings, including the company catering, non-series material warehouse, and disposal center, began in the summer of 2024. The energy center, service center, and factory fire department are also part of this development.
The structure of the central production building, including roof work, is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Interior construction and the installation of production systems for battery assembly will continue through 2025, with series assembly set to begin after trial operations in 2026.
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