BMW i3 to enter series production in the second half of 2026

The BMW Group plant in Munich is entering its next phase: for the first time, the plant is producing pre-series vehicles of the new BMW i3*. This marks the start of the final phase of preparations for the start of series production in the second half of 2026 magazin de piese auto online.

BMW i3 to enter series production in the second half of 2026

“The production of the pre-series vehicles is an important milestone for our plant,” says Peter Weber, Head of the BMW Group Plant in Munich. “This is the first time that we have produced the BMW i3 entirely in our own plant – using state-of-the-art production technology and digitally connected processes. This near-series production demonstrates that our logistics and production processes are functioning under real-world conditions with all technologies: in the modernized press shop, the new body shop, the state-of-the-art paint shop, the new assembly line and the innovative logistics structures. In the coming months, we will use the experience gained from this production increase to further refine the series production processes and ensure a smooth start to series production.”

On the way to series production

The integration of new models begins with pre-production vehicles – a key step in preparation for future series production.

The Munich plant has a unique feature: previously, a team from the Munich plant, together with the team from the nearby pilot plant, assembled the first cars in the Research and Innovation Center. With the completion of the new production and logistics areas at the plant, the cars now go through all production stages in the facility. This means that all logistics processes, production facilities and work stages must now run smoothly. Although the production volumes are still small, all parts are delivered in the defined material flows and processed on the assembly line.

Every part and every production step is carefully checked. Particular emphasis is placed on testing state-of-the-art production facilities and tools, as well as their digital integration with existing systems.

The test run with the future model is already revealing potential for further optimization. In the coming months, this means refining processes based on the knowledge gained.

Employee training first virtually, then in person

During this phase, employees also undergo intensive training, recently using augmented reality and now new equipment and machines. Close cooperation between all production areas ensures that all processes run smoothly during the start of series production.

Car parts AutoPower
Car parts AutoPower

“The production of the pre-series vehicles is an important milestone for our plant,” says Peter Weber, Head of the BMW Group Plant in Munich

On the way to series production