BMW has begun mass production of its sixth-generation battery at its powertrain plant in Shenyang, a key step in localizing its Neue Klasse electric vehicle lineup in China. The announcement came at BMW's China Innovation Day on October 15, according to NetEase Auto.
Local production and technology gains
The new battery uses large cylindrical cells, which BMW says offer more than 20% higher energy density, up to 30% faster charging, and up to 30% greater range compared with the previous generation. The cells are integrated directly into the battery housing, eliminating the traditional module layer and freeing up space for flexible vehicle packaging.
The Shenyang plant, BMW's largest powertrain base outside Europe, has been producing engines and batteries since 2017. Over nine years, it has developed capabilities across process development, production validation, quality management, and scaled manufacturing. The sixth-generation battery project involved a 10 billion yuan (about $1.4 billion) investment, part of more than 120 billion yuan (about $16.9 billion) invested in the Shenyang site since 2010.
BMW said the three core components of its sixth-generation electric drive system will now be produced in China, including the battery, electric motor, and power electronics. The company is integrating digital twins, data analytics, and AI into production to monitor weld quality and ensure consistency.
Range test and supplier partnerships
At the event, BMW announced that the Neue Klasse BMW i3 completed a 1,213-kilometer (754-mile) real-world drive without recharging. The result was achieved under specific test conditions and should not be taken as typical everyday range, but it demonstrates the combined efficiency of the sixth-generation drive, large cylindrical cells, an 800V architecture, and energy management software.
The Chinese supply chain plays a significant role in the Neue Klasse program. Representatives from CATL, EVE Energy, Alibaba, Fuyao Group, and Momenta attended a ceremony for the first supplier partners ordering the Neue Klasse BMW iX3. BMW summarized the collaboration as “building the car together,” combining global engineering standards with local innovation.
Looking ahead, BMW plans to launch nearly 20 new or updated models with Neue Klasse technology in China by 2027. The company also aims to raise the share of locally produced models to over 95% by 2030 and is evaluating exports of Chinese-made vehicles to Southeast Asia and other markets.
