Collaboration for Advanced Battery Technology
Munich / Zagreb. BMW Group has teamed up with Rimac Technology from Croatia to develop an innovative high-voltage battery for the all-electric BMW i7.
Focus on Efficiency and Speed
The partnership aims to integrate BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology (Gen6) into the i7, featuring a new lithium-ion cylindrical cell. This cell boasts a 20% higher volumetric energy density compared to the prismatic cells used in the previous generation (Gen5).
Enhanced Range and Charging Capability
This new high-voltage battery combines Gen6 cell technology with the established Gen5 module design, allowing the i7 to achieve a significantly increased range. Additionally, customers will benefit from faster charging speeds, reducing overall charging times.
World Premiere Scheduled
The BMW i7 is set to make its world debut on April 22nd at Auto China 2026 in Beijing.
Statements from Key Figures
Dr. Thomas Engelhardt, Senior VP Development High-Voltage Storage and Charging at BMW Group, stated, “We are quickly rolling out the technologies of the Neue Klasse across our entire model portfolio, including our all-electric luxury sedan. The collaboration with Rimac Technology exemplifies European innovative strength.”
Manufacturing and Production Insights
The high-voltage battery will be manufactured using state-of-the-art equipment at Rimac Technology’s facility in Croatia and will be delivered ready for assembly at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the sole production site for the BMW 7 Series worldwide.
Rimac’s Perspective on Collaboration
Mate Rimac, Founder and President of Rimac Group, remarked on the collaboration: “BMW has always been known for pushing engineering to the highest level, making this partnership particularly exciting for us. We developed a high-voltage battery system that unlocks the full potential of these cylindrical cells in record time, leading to significant improvements in energy, range, and charging performance.”
Rimac Technology’s Role in Electrification
Rimac Technology is a Tier 1 supplier focusing on electrification in the automotive sector. Their product portfolio includes high-voltage battery systems, e-axles, as well as electronics and software solutions, all developed in-house. The long-term partnership with BMW demonstrates Rimac’s evolution from a niche supercar supplier to a key player in high-volume vehicle projects.
© BMW Group
