At a time when the wave of electrification is sweeping the world, the cooperation between the BMW Group and CATL is undoubtedly a bellwether for the transformation of the automotive industry. On December 6, 2024, CATL announced that it will supply cylindrical batteries for BMW's "next-generation" all-electric models in the global and Chinese markets from 2026, with a total production capacity of 40GWh. This collaboration not only marks the deep connection between the two companies in the field of electrification, but also heralds a major transformation of the global automotive supply chain.
1. Background and significance of cooperation
The BMW Group's partnership with CATL began in 2012, when BMW became CATL's first customer in the automotive industry. After years of joint efforts, CATL has developed into a leader in the global power battery industry. The deepening of this cooperation not only reflects BMW's confidence in the strength and resilience of China's supply chain, but also demonstrates BMW's importance to the Chinese market.
Pictured: CATL will fully supply cylindrical batteries for BMW's "new generation" pure electric models
2. Technical details and innovations
Under the agreement, CATL will supply BMW with new cylindrical batteries with a standard diameter of 46 mm, which will be produced at two battery plants in China and Europe, each with an annual production capacity of up to 20GWh. The supply of this new cylindrical battery will provide strong power support for BMW's "new generation" models, and also reflects CATL's leading position in the field of battery technology.
3. Features of BMW's "New Generation" model
BMW's "Next Generation" models will feature a newly developed E/E architecture with a new user interface, human-machine interaction concept, and electric drive and battery systems. This model not only represents BMW's vision for the future of mobility, but also brings users an unprecedented driving experience.
4. Green cooperation and sustainable development
BMW and State Grid plan to significantly increase the coverage area and charging capacity of green electric charging from 2025, with the goal of achieving 100% green charging of BMW and MINI brand models at State Grid charging piles by 2027, thereby effectively reducing the carbon emissions of electric vehicle customers in the use stage.
5. Conclusions and prospects
The partnership between CATL and BMW is not only a strategic alliance between the two companies, but also a microcosm of the electrification transformation of the global automotive industry. Through this partnership, BMW will further consolidate its leading position in the global EV market, while CATL will continue to expand its share of the global EV battery market. With the launch of the "next generation" of models and the expansion of the green charging network, we have reason to believe that this collaboration will inject new impetus into the development of the global electric vehicle industry and drive the entire industry towards a more sustainable future.
In this transformation process, the cooperation between BMW and CATL is not only a combination of technology and production capacity, but also a joint exploration of the concept of future mobility. The launch of BMW's "Next Generation" model will bring new opportunities for technological industrialization and inject new impetus into the regional economy and industrial clusters. At the same time, BMW has recycled more than 2,000 tons of battery recycled raw materials, providing a replicable model for scientifically and efficiently responding to the "retirement tide" of power batteries. These initiatives not only reflect BMW's commitment to environmental protection, but also are in line with the general trend of the global automotive industry to transition to a low-carbon and green environment. With the deepening of the cooperation, we look forward to BMW and CATL working together to open a new chapter in electric mobility."
