BMW Prepares Mexico Plant For Neue Klasse Models Production

BMW Group plant in San Luis Potisi, Mexico. The site is being expanded to accommodate the Neue Klasse models production.

BMW Group began construction work to expand its plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, earlier this week. Said facility will play a crucial role in the Bavarian brand’s production plans for its upcoming Neue Klasse models as this facility will firstly churn out the EV batteries for which, and later the models itself.

To expand this site, the firm has invested up to €800 million (approx. RM4.07 billion). The future high-voltage battery assembly at Plant San Luis Potosí covers over 80,000 square meters, making it crucial for integrating the Neue Klasse at the same site.

New generation EV batteries from BMW that this Mexican plant is poised to produce soon.

Development of Plant San Luis Potosí, just under 20,000 square meters will be added to the body shop, resulting in a total area of over 90,000 square meters. Assembly and logistics areas are also being expanded by almost 10,000 square meters.

Additionally, BMW Group will use its newly developed round cells for the first time in the Neue Klasse, boosting energy density by 20%, thus improving charging speeds and range by up to 30%.

Soon, this Mexican site will start producing the Neue Klasse cars and its EV batteries.

BMW Group says it is committed to the "local for local" principle worldwide, ensuring that its high-voltage battery assembly facilities are located as close as possible to its vehicle plants. Elsewhere, assembly sites for sixth-generation high-voltage batteries are being built in Debrecen, Shenyang, Woodruff, Spartanburg, and Irlbach-Straßkirchen.

According to the group, this approach safeguards production, even in the event of unforeseen political and economic developments. At the same time, the move also strengthens existing locations and secures jobs too.

BMW Vision Neue Klasse concepts previewing what many tip to be the next generation 3 Series saloon and iX3 crossover SUV models.

Besides which, BMW Group plans on doubling its photovoltaic output in Mexico, generating more than 20% of the electricity needed directly on the factory premises. The wastewater treatment plant has been expanded as well, with an investment of €3.3 million (approx. RM16.79 million) to significantly increase the reuse of treated wastewater.

BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí is also stepping up its commitment to skills development, ensuring employees are highly qualified and prepared for future challenges. Training will include topics such as safety awareness around high-voltage system production and the use of robotics in manufacturing processes. KR