BMW tests i3 production in Munich ahead of series launch
Before a vehicle reaches the market, there is a critical phase that determines its industrial viability.
BMW has begun this final stage at its Munich plant with the BMW i3.
There are moments in the automotive industry that go unnoticed but change everything. At BMW Group’s Munich Plant, one of these key milestones has just been reached: the production of the first pre-series BMW i3 vehicles, very close to the series configuration, is now underway.
This step marks the beginning of the final preparation phase leading up to the start of series production, scheduled for the second half of 2026.
Peter Weber, Director of BMW Group Munich Plant, explains:
“Pre-series vehicle production is an important milestone for our plant. For the first time, we have built a complete BMW i3 at our facility, using state-of-the-art production technology and digitally connected processes. With production now nearing readiness for series operation, our logistics and manufacturing processes are functioning under real conditions across all areas of the plant: in our newly modernized press shop, the new body shop line, the state-of-the-art paint shop, the new assembly line, and the innovative logistics structures. Over the coming months, we will apply the lessons learned from this start-up to further refine the processes for series production and ensure a smooth launch.”
Path to series.
Entering this stage is critical for moving toward series production.
The integration of new models begins precisely with pre-series vehicles, which allow the validation of processes, equipment, and workflows before scaling up production.
Until now, what set Munich’s process apart was the close collaboration between the plant team and a group from the pilot plant, where the first vehicles were assembled at the Research and Innovation Center (FIZ).
With the completion of the new production and logistics areas, the vehicles now go through all manufacturing stages directly within the Munich Plant.
Testing under real conditions.
This shift means that logistics processes, manufacturing equipment, and operations must run continuously and in a coordinated manner under real-world conditions.
Although production volumes remain low, all components are supplied through designated material flows and processed on the production line.
Each component and production stage is carefully reviewed, with particular attention to the inspection and approval of production equipment and tools, as well as their digital integration with existing systems.
People and preparation.
System testing for the future model also helps identify opportunities for optimization.
Over the coming months, the focus will be on adjusting and refining processes based on the insights gained during this phase.
At the same time, preparation is not limited to technology. Employees undergo an intensive training program, initially conducted virtually using augmented reality, which now transitions to the new facilities and machinery.
Collaboration across all production areas aims to ensure that operations are fully integrated before the start of series production.
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