BMW Group Plant Munich has entered a critical phase in its manufacturing transformation, with the first near-series test vehicles for the new BMW i3 now rolling off the assembly line. Series production is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026.
Highlights
- First complete BMW i3 built entirely at Plant Munich using modernized press shop, new body shop, paint shop, and assembly facilities
- Pre-series production validates logistics and manufacturing processes under real-world conditions before full-scale launch
- Employee training combines augmented reality with hands-on equipment operation to prepare workforce for series production
- Digital integration of production equipment undergoes approval inspection alongside physical system tests
Pre-Series Phase Validates Manufacturing Systems
“Production of pre-series vehicles is an important milestone for our plant,” said 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.”
Weber noted that production is now close to series maturity, with logistics and production processes performing under real-world conditions across all technologies. The coming months will focus on refining processes based on lessons learned during the ramp-up phase.
From Pilot Plant to Full Production Facility
Plant Munich’s approach to model integration began with teams from the facility working alongside personnel from the nearby pilot plant. Initial vehicle assembly occurred at BMW’s 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. Current requirements include:
- All parts supplied via designated material flows and processed on production lines
- Close scrutiny of every part and production step during the pre-series phase
- Approval inspection for production equipment and tools with digital integration verification
- System tests to identify optimization potential before series launch
Workforce Preparation Through Blended Training
Employees are undergoing intensive training during the pre-series phase. The training program progressed from augmented reality instruction to hands-on work with new installations and machinery.
Cross-functional cooperation across all production areas aims to ensure seamlessly integrated operations for series launch.
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