Q: Mr. Lamp, we are here at the BCCC – close to the FIZ. Everything looks very much like a High-Tech Research Facility. Where does the BMW Group stand in terms of Battery Tech today?
The BMW Group is in a strong position when it comes to battery technology. The company has established the BCCC (Battery Cell Competence Center) close to the FIZ and recently opened the CMCC (Cell Manufacturing Competence Center) in Parsdorf. These centers, along with the expertise of professionals from around the world, allow BMW to compete with the best battery cell producing companies globally. BMW’s journey in battery technology began in 2008 with the development of its first MINI Cooper BEV prototype, and the company has come a long way since then.
…and why do you think you were able to make it to this level of expertise?
We believe that our strategy of developing in-house competence in battery cell technology and large-scale battery production has been key to our success. This strategy enables us to incorporate the best batteries into our electrified vehicles.
Q: Mr. Vandeputte, after more than 25 years at Umicore you just started at BMW Group – what is your perspective on the BMW Battery Strategy?
At Umicore, we valued collaborating with BMW on battery technology due to the company’s clear focus on understanding and mastering cell technology and production. The challenges faced by the automotive industry today, combined with BMW’s commitment to delivering the Ultimate Driving Machine, make the BMW approach very convincing and clear.
Q3: And the step from a “material tech company” to a German Premium Car manufacturer – how does it feel?
It feels invigorating to be part of the iconic BMW family. The welcoming attitude and the exciting yet challenging objectives ahead make the transition from a material tech company to a German Premium Car manufacturer a positive experience. The focus on battery performance, cost-competitiveness, and environmental impact align with my expertise in active materials.
Q: Mr. Lamp, talking about projects and challenges: what is the next big step customers can expect from BMW electrified powertrains?
In 2025, our NEUE KLASSE models will introduce the Gen6 eDrive technology, featuring a new cylindrical cell with 20% more volumetric energy density, 30% faster charging, and 30% more range compared to Gen5 technology.
But changing from a prismatic cell in Gen5 to a cylindrical cell in Gen6 is a significant move: what triggered this decision?
At the beginning of the process, we considered all cell formats and sizes. However, the ambitious performance and safety goals led us to conclude that the cylindrical cell is the best format for our next generation. It also aligns with our integration approach for the NEUE KLASSE: cell to pack and pack to open body.
Q: Mr. Vandeputte, ASSB is often considered “the next big thing”. Where does BMW stand? What is the potential of the technology?
We are making significant progress with our partner Solid Power in establishing a new process development line in our CMCC in Parsdorf. This advanced battery technology offers higher energy densities combined with equal safety compared to current technologies. However, it will take several years to mature the technology and prepare it for industrialization, likely not before the end of the decade.
Q: Looking at the automotive battery landscape today – very often new trends or even innovations are discussed in the media. How do you keep up with all developments?
This is where the close connection from the BMW battery team to the Start-Up scene and universities plays a crucial role. It ensures that BMW remains abreast of new trends, findings, and developments, while also helping the company attract top talents in the industry.
Gentlemen, thank you very much for this conversation.
In the event of enquiries please contact:
BMW Group Corporate Communications
Bernhard Ederer
Communication BMW Group Innovation, Powertrain Technologies
Mobile: +49-176-601-28556
E-Mail: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com
Almut Stollberg
Head of Communication BMW Group Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital Car
Mobile: +49-151-601-96543
E-Mail: Almut.Stollberg@bmw.com