BMW is revolutionizing the way it produces its next-generation all-electric Neue Klasse (new class) vehicles with the help of NVIDIA’s advanced virtual computing platform. This week, BMW revealed that it has opened the world’s first entirely virtual factory in the NVIDIA Omniverse to produce its Neue Klasse EVs two years ahead of the launch of series production.
The NVIDIA omniverse platform is a powerful tool that uses artificial intelligence to create and operate applications in the metaverse (virtually). This game-changing technology allows users to create physically accurate, large-scale demonstrations that bring concepts to life in a new way, or a digital twin as it’s often called.
At GTC, BMW announced that it is expanding the use of the NVIDIA Omniverse to revamp its production network, including its planned EV plant in Debrecen, Hungary. Although construction has just begun, and the new facility isn’t expected to produce vehicles until 2025, BMW is already manufacturing cars at the plant in the metaverse. The ability to see virtually in real-time how the facility will operate will ensure a smooth and efficient opening process.
Milan Nedeljković, head of production at BMW, explains: “With Nvidia and AI we set up new factories faster and produce more efficiently than ever. This results in significant savings for us.” The platform allows BMW’s teams from around the world to work together in real-time, resulting in faster decision-making and efficiency.
BMW and NVIDIA held a factory demo to showcase the power and efficiency of planning AI-based EV facilities using the Omniverse platform. The joint demo featured BMW’s global planning team joining Nedeljković and NVIDIA CEO and founder Jensen Huang on a virtual planning session for the factory’s new body shop. After learning a new production concept that needed changes (a robot placement), the team collaborates on a solution, visualizing the process in real time as they go.
The automaker’s virtual planning adds to its “masterplan for the automotive production of tomorrow,” dubbed the BMW iFACTORY. BMW introduced the production concept last year to focus on digitalization alongside green and resource-saving methods. The Hungary plant is expected to open in 2025, where it will produce the company’s first next-gen Neue Klasse EVs as the automaker kicks off a new era.
FAQ
Q1. When will electric cars be available in the UK?
A1. Electric cars are already available in the UK.
Q2. Where can I find electric car charging stations near me?
A2. You can use online resources such as Zap-Map to find electric car charging stations near you.
Q3. Which electric car is the best?
A3. The best electric car depends on your individual needs and preferences.
