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BMW Group is revolutionising vehicle production through advanced automation and digitalisation within its BMW iFACTORY framework. Since 2022, the company has tested its Automated Driving In-Plant (AFW) system at its Dingolfing plant, marking a significant step in production innovation. With the system now CE certified, AFW is moving into series operation, with Leipzig joining the rollout and more facilities set to adopt the technology in stages.
The AFW system enables fully autonomous vehicle movements within the production process. At Dingolfing, new cars travel over one kilometre from assembly to finishing without a driver. This innovation leverages Europe’s largest LIDAR infrastructure and advanced cloud-based systems, ensuring seamless navigation regardless of vehicle configurations. Key contributions to the technology came from Swiss company Embotech AG, an early partner through BMW’s START-UP Garage programme.
Leipzig will soon see automated driving implemented in 90% of BMW and MINI models, with Regensburg and Oxford expected to integrate the system by 2025. The upcoming Debrecen plant in Hungary will adopt AFW from the start of its series production. Beyond internal routes, BMW plans to expand automation to testing zones and outdoor distribution, further optimising its logistics and efficiency.
BMW’s experts are continuously refining the technology to expand its capabilities. In the future, onboard systems will complement external sensors, providing even greater precision and flexibility. With millions of test kilometres planned across its network, BMW is cementing its leadership in digitalisation and automation while paving the way for advancements in autonomous driving.
