The BMW Group has begun series production of its Gen6 high-voltage batteries in Shenyang. Following Debrecen and Irlbach-Straßkirchen, Shenyang is the third location in the new global production network for Gen6 battery technology. BMW says the start of production in China marks another important milestone in the technology’s global industrialisation. The high-voltage batteries produced locally will form the energy core of future Neue Klasse models built in China.

“The high-voltage battery is a key component of our all-electric vehicles and one of the BMW Group’s most important technologies for the future. The start of Gen6 battery production in China demonstrates how quickly and systematically we are industrializing our latest technology across our global production network. This creates a key prerequisite for the successful global ramp-up of the Neue Klasse,” said Dr. Raymond Wittmann, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production. “Production in Shenyang exemplifies our global approach: We manufacture locally, efficiently and close to our markets, in line with uniform global standards and the highest quality.”

Gen6 technology

BMW maintains that the Gen6 high-voltage battery represents a technological leap forward for the all-electric models of the Neue Klasse. Compared with the previous cell generation, the newly developed cylindrical cells offer more than 20 percent higher energy density. Charging speed and range increase by up to 30 percent, BMW claims.

This is made possible by the new cell-to-pack concept: The cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the battery housing, eliminating the conventional module level. According to BMW, this makes more efficient use of the available installation space and allows the high-voltage battery to be integrated flexibly into different vehicle models.

The Energy Master control unit plays a key role. Developed by the BMW Group, this central control unit is located directly on the high-voltage battery and consolidates essential power-supply and battery-management functions.

Global production network

The BMW Group is establishing a global production network for its sixth generation of high-voltage batteries. The batteries are manufactured close to the respective vehicle plants. This shortens transport routes, supports a stable supply and strengthens the resilience of the production network. Following Debrecen, Hungary, and Irlbach-Straßkirchen, Germany, Shenyang is the third location in the global network.

The battery assembly locations in Woodruff, USA, and San Luis Potosí, Mexico, will also begin series production in the coming months. Uniform production, quality and safety standards apply worldwide, while each location contributes its regional manufacturing and supplier expertise.