MUNICH: BMW Group Plant Munich is gearing up to launch the Neue Klasse in summer 2026.
During ongoing series operation, three new production halls are currently being built for the body shop, assembly and associated production logistics.
“For the production start of the Neue Klasse, we will have a state-of-the-art plant in Munich that is characterised by flexibility, innovation and, above all, efficiency,” says plant director Peter Weber.
Starting in 2027, the plant in Munich will exclusively produce fully-electric vehicles, further enhancing efficiency boost.
“With the Neue Klasse, we will significantly reduce manufacturing costs at the Munich Plant,” says Weber.
In addition to optimised production processes and targeted automation, the Neue Klasse’s new vehicle architecture will also leverage further efficiencies.
Focusing on a single drive train variant reduces production steps and the number of parts – for example, for wiring harnesses, which previously varied according to engine type and can be complex to install.
The timeline for the ramp-up in Munich is carefully synchronised – in part due to the plant’s refurbishment.
The first pre-series vehicles will be built at the pilot plant of the BMW Group Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ), with support from Plant Munich’s production team, before the end of the year.
“Alongside the pilot plant at the FIZ, we are also using virtual simulations to ensure a smooth ramp-up,” says Weber, describing the unusual situation in the decisive year ahead of the launch.
He adds that Plant Munich’s experienced launch team is also working closely with colleagues at the new plant in Debrecen, Hungary, where the first Neue Klasse model will enter production late this year.
