BMW Builds Future-Proof EV Production Stronghold In Debrecen - VIDEO REPORT
2022. 06. 01.
The official foundation stone-laying ceremony of BMW Group’s new plant in Debrecen has taken place to mark the latest milestone of the investment. Worth over EUR 1 billion and creating 1,000+ jobs, the project is set to implement the three dimensions of the BMW iFactory vision, namely lean, green and digital.
BMW Group establishes a one-of-a-kind production capacity at its Debrecen site of 400 hectares that will allow to supply its European and overseas customers in the premium vehicle segment. The new facility is set to cover the entire production process including press shop, bodyshop, paintshop and assembly.
The plant will be home to cutting-edge technology that serves the purpose to meet the highest standards of e-transformation automotive is driven by. The series production of the fully electric Neue Klasse will launch in 2025, with annual capacity of around 150,000 units.
said BMW AG Board Member for Production Milan Nedeljković adding that this is also a unique opportunity to completely rethink automotive production in every respect.
That is where the three dimensions of the BMW iFactory strategic vision − LEAN, GREEN and DIGITAL – kick in. Part of the paradigm shift is to achieve net zero. Therefore, BMW’s plant in Debrecen will be the first in the world to deliver CO2-free vehicle production. Sustainability is ensured, among others, by using green energy and consistent circularity, meaning that production materials and resources will be reused wherever possible.
The BMW Group is further adopting new approaches to digitalisation. Digital planning tools will help design every last detail of the entire production process virtually. Artificial intelligence (AI) applications will support quality assurance in a range of ways and optimise processes in smart and predictive maintenance. The spectrum of digital applications will include edge computing, data analytics, 5G location technologies and autonomous smart logistics systems with AI functions.
said Mr. Nedeljković.
Construction of the BMW Training Centre is underway as well, in preparation for September 2023, when local vocational training will be launched as part of a dual course of study.
Plant Director Hans-Peter Kemser emphasised.