The BMW Group’s Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) has entered into a groundbreaking research collaboration with the University of Zagreb’s Regional Center of Excellence for Robotic Technology (CRTA). Together, the two institutions are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the production processes of battery cells, marking a significant step forward in the development of future high-voltage batteries.
This innovative project brings together doctoral candidates and students from the University of Zagreb, who are tasked with collecting and structuring existing production data. By analysing this data, AI models are developed to detect patterns that can lead to optimised battery cell manufacturing, enhancing performance, quality, and cost-efficiency.
Battery Cell Expertise Across the Value Chain
BMW’s extensive expertise in battery technology is housed at its Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich, where the company develops and manufactures battery cells for future generations of electric vehicles. This state-of-the-art facility is complemented by the Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf, where the best-performing cells are scaled up for series production. The seamless collaboration between BMW’s development, purchasing, and production departments ensures an integrated approach that optimises both product quality and production efficiency.
European Knowledge Exchange: A Key to Success
The University of Zagreb contributes its knowledge in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, facilitating a continuous exchange of ideas. “As a university, we offer BMW access to the latest research and innovation, while our students gain invaluable hands-on experience,” said Zdenko Tonković, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture at the University of Zagreb. This partnership not only accelerates technological advancements but also fosters the development of cutting-edge solutions in battery cell production.
Fostering Future Talent
A vital component of the collaboration is the focus on developing young talent. “We aim to inspire students with the innovative work happening at BMW’s battery cell competence centers and hope to attract them to our company,” said Moritz Poremba, Head of Battery Cell Recycling Technology Development at BMW. The students benefit from one-on-one mentoring and the chance to build their professional networks, enhancing their career prospects and positioning them as leaders in the industry.
This partnership highlights the importance of cross-border knowledge sharing, bolstering both BMW’s and the University of Zagreb’s innovative capabilities and competitiveness in the rapidly evolving field of electric mobility.
