BMW i7’s Upcoming Battery Supply Comes From an Unlikely Source

Key Takeaways

Rimac Technology will supply new high-performance battery packs for the updated BMW i7, enhancing range and charging capabilities.
The batteries will be produced in Zagreb, Croatia, and sent to BMW’s Dingolfing plant in Germany for final assembly.
The updated i7 is set to be revealed on April 22 at events in Beijing and New York, competing with the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S-Class EV.

Collaboration Between Rimac and BMW

BMW has partnered with Rimac Technology, a Croatian supercar manufacturer, to supply cutting-edge battery packs for the revamped i7 model. The announcement was made on Tuesday, highlighting significant improvements in range and charging performance stemming from this collaboration.

The new i7 will feature a visual refresh aligned with BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, while maintaining the existing Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform. Despite not being a fully redefined software platform, the integration of Rimac’s advanced battery technology is expected to enhance the vehicle’s overall performance.

Rimac’s innovative Gen5 module-based technology, paired with Gen6 4695 cylindrical lithium-ion cells, aims to provide substantial enhancements in energy density, range, and charging efficiency. “Together, we developed a high-voltage battery system that unlocks the full potential of the new cylindrical cells in record time,” said Mate Rimac, founder and president of Rimac Group, emphasizing the value of this technology collaboration.

The manufacturing operations for these batteries will take place at Rimac’s expansive 90,000-square-meter facility in Zagreb, Croatia. Post-manufacturing, the battery packs will be shipped to BMW’s Dingolfing plant in Germany, which will serve as the exclusive production site for the i7.

This partnership with Rimac is a strategic move for BMW, differentiating itself from traditional battery manufacturers such as BYD and CATL. Rimac Technology is distinct in its focus on high-performance and high-voltage battery systems, particularly suited for luxury electric vehicles and hypercars. The company has an established background, supplying batteries for prestigious models like the Porsche 911 GTS T-Hybrid and the Bugatti Tourbillon hypercar.

BMW’s relationship with Rimac began with a supply agreement in 2023, and the i7 will be the outcome of this initial collaboration. As the competition heats up in the luxury electric sedan market, the updated i7 will rival the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz S-Class EV, which is expected to be unveiled later this decade as part of the S-Class lineup.

The new i7 will be publicly revealed on April 22 at overlapping events in Beijing and New York. Industry watchers should take note of this date for comprehensive coverage of the launch, showcasing the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology.

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