The BMW Group’s vehicle plant in Regensburg has been honored as the “Factory of the Year” 2024 in the category of “excellent large-series assembly,” one of the most esteemed accolades in the German industrial sector. Awarded by management consultants Kearney in partnership with Süddeutscher Verlag events and the trade publication Produktion, the recognition celebrates the Regensburg plant’s excellence in overcoming contemporary production challenges.
With a daily output of up to 1,400 BMW X1 and BMW X2 models, the Regensburg plant is one of over 30 BMW Group production locations globally, serving customers around the world. The facility stands out for its flexible production line, capable of manufacturing vehicles with internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and fully-electric models on the same assembly line. This adaptability reflects the plant’s commitment to technological innovation and operational efficiency.
Recognized for Innovation and Workforce Collaboration
The judges praised BMW Group Plant Regensburg for its impressive transformation into an iFactory, emphasizing the role of both advanced technology and the plant’s highly skilled workforce. “The innovative strength and dynamism with which the Regensburg plant is implementing the transformation to iFactory together with the entire workforce is impressive. In particular, the flexibility both in the factory setup and on the part of the employees is exemplary and an inspiration for successful production in Germany,” stated Daniel Stengel, a director at Kearney and project manager for the competition.
Armin Ebner, Head of BMW Group Plant Regensburg, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, “Being named ‘Factory of the Year’ by an independent panel of expert judges is both a significant achievement and a source of motivation for us. I would like to thank the entire Plant Regensburg team for their exceptional flexibility, commitment to quality, and outstanding performance. Together, we can take great pride in earning the title ‘Factory of the Year’.”
Digital Tools and AI Driving Production Excellence
Key to the plant’s success has been its adoption of advanced digital tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), which has significantly enhanced productivity, quality, and resilience. The use of AI in the manufacturing process allows the Regensburg plant to streamline operations and maintain high standards of production, ensuring that BMW vehicles meet the expectations of a global market.
Award Process and Ceremony
The Factory of the Year award involves a rigorous two-stage selection process. Following the submission of detailed applications, an experienced Kearney audit team visits the top-performing companies, after which a panel of experts from industry and academia selects the winners. The official award ceremony will take place during the Factory of the Year congress in spring 2025.
