BMW Group & Rimac Technology Cooperate on Innovative High-Voltage Battery for the BMW i7

BMW Group has partnered with Croatian firm Rimac Technology to develop an advanced high-voltage battery system for the forthcoming all-electric BMW i7. This collaboration centres on BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology (Gen6), which incorporates lithium-ion cylindrical cells boasting a 20% higher volumetric energy density than the previous generation’s prismatic cells. The integration of these cells into the Gen5 module design aims to significantly enhance the vehicle’s driving range while enabling faster charging capabilities. The new battery system, produced using state-of-the-art equipment at Rimac’s Croatian facility, will be assembled at BMW’s Dingolfing plant, the exclusive production site for the 7 Series. The BMW i7 is set to debut simultaneously at Auto China 2026 in Beijing and a special event in New York City on 22 April. This launch marks a significant milestone in BMW’s electrification strategy, as the company continues to roll out its Neue Klasse technologies across its model range, including its flagship luxury sedan. Senior Vice President of Development High-Voltage Storage and Charging at BMW, Dr Thomas Engelhardt, highlighted the successful collaboration as a demonstration of European innovation, praising Rimac’s contribution to delivering a bespoke battery solution. Mate Rimac, Founder and CEO of Rimac Group, expressed enthusiasm about working with BMW, emphasising the rapid development of a battery system that unlocks the full potential of the new cylindrical cells and achieves notable improvements in energy density, range, and charging speed. Rimac Technology’s evolution from a niche supplier for super sports cars to a Tier 1 supplier for high-volume automotive projects underscores the growing importance of electrification specialists in the industry. Their portfolio, which includes high-voltage battery systems, e-axles, and integrated electronics and software, enables tailored solutions that meet the demands of premium electric vehicles like the BMW i7. This partnership exemplifies the increasing collaboration between traditional automotive manufacturers and innovative technology firms to accelerate the transition to electric mobility.