European Automakers BMW and Rimac Unite to Forge New EV Battery Tech

In a move poised to reshape the electric vehicle (EV) battery landscape, German auto giant BMW has aligned with Croatian tech marvel Rimac to collaborate on advanced high-voltage battery technology for EVs. This partnership emerges as a strategic European counter to the prevailing Asian market control over EV battery production.

The team-up is set to leverage Rimac’s prowess in electric hypercar manufacturing and its burgeoning role as a crucial supplier in the electric powertrain domain. Mate Rimac, the company’s CEO, had heralded an alliance with an unnamed German automotive firm for battery systems deployment in a forthcoming high-performance model, with a production scale of 40,000 units per year, kicking off within the current year.

BMW has opted to remain tight-lipped regarding specifics on the battery models or vehicles that will benefit from this collaboration, pointing out the exclusivity of the deal from the ‘Neue Klasse’ EV lineup’s new cylindrical batteries, which are scheduled to roll out in 2025.

This ambitious undertaking is reflective of the pressing demand for automakers to prudently manage investment costs associated with electrifying their fleets. While higher-end EV maker Lucid is diversifying its revenue by peddling its tech to luxury brands, BMW continues to forge forward, having achieved an all-electric sales fraction of 15% in the previous year and targeting a 50% share well ahead of 2030.

Despite BMW conducting its own battery cell research in Germany, the actual large-scale manufacturing executions are outsourced. They have secured multi-billion-euro orders from Asian producers such as CATL and EVE Energy for cell production based both in China and on European soil.

In the context of the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) industry, the strategic partnership between BMW and Rimac signifies a powerful alliance aimed at innovating high-voltage battery technology. As EVs continue to disrupt the traditional automotive sector, battery technology remains a critical component that dictates the performance, range, and overall success of electric cars.

Amidst a market heavily dominated by Asian manufacturers, European automakers have been increasingly investing in battery technology to strengthen their competitive edge. This collaboration highlights a concerted effort to establish a European stronghold in the EV battery sector.

The EV industry is expected to experience significant growth, with market forecasts projecting an increase in global EV sales. Analysts anticipate that advancements in battery technology will further drive the adoption of EVs, as these technologies aim to reduce charge times, extend vehicle range, and improve overall efficiency.

There are, however, several issues that the industry faces. Supply chain constraints, the cost and availability of raw materials, and the environmental impact of battery production and disposal are challenges that manufacturers must address. Additionally, energy density, charging infrastructure, and the integration of renewable energy sources are crucial areas of development for the industry.

To stay informed on the latest developments related to BMW’s and Rimac’s ventures into electric mobility, consumers and stakeholders can refer to their official websites for news and updates:

– Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW Group)

– Rimac Automobili

With BMW’s strong presence in the global automotive market and Rimac’s trailblazing role in electric supercar and battery technology, their venture may set new benchmarks for the EV battery industry. As BMW aims for a significant electric sales share by 2030, the company’s investment into battery research and collaboration with key suppliers like CATL and EVE Energy complements partnerships such as the one with Rimac, bolstering BMW’s position as a leader in the future of mobility.