Summary
BMW Group has begun series production of its Gen6 high-voltage batteries in Shenyang, China, the third site in its global production network for the battery generation. The company says the cylindrical cells offer more than 20% higher energy density, while charging speed and range increase by up to 30% compared with the previous cell generation.
BMW Group began series production of its Gen6 high-voltage batteries in Shenyang, China, on 15 October 2026. The company says the locally made batteries will power future Neue Klasse models built in China. Shenyang is the third site in BMW’s global Gen6 production network, after Debrecen in Hungary and Irlbach-Straßkirchen in Germany.
BMW says the new cylindrical cells have more than 20% higher energy density than the previous cell generation. It also reports increases of up to 30% in charging speed and range. These are comparisons with the previous generation; the announcement does not give vehicle-specific range figures or charging times.
A cell-to-pack design changes the battery layout
In the Gen6 design, cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the battery housing, without the conventional intermediate module level. BMW says this cell-to-pack approach makes more efficient use of installation space and allows the battery to be integrated into different vehicle models.
A control unit called the Energy Master is mounted directly on the high-voltage battery. Developed by BMW, it consolidates key power-supply and battery-management functions. Together, the cell layout and control unit form part of the battery system BMW is preparing for the Neue Klasse.
Production and inspection at Shenyang
BMW describes a manufacturing sequence that starts with cell inspection. Cells are joined with cooling units to form clusters, which are then laser-cleaned and precision-welded to a cell contact system. A foaming process bonds the components into a mechanical unit. The battery housing is then closed, sealed and riveted, before the Energy Master is installed.
The company says production data is captured and analysed throughout the process. Digital twins, data analytics and AI-supported inspections are used to identify deviations and maintain traceability; inline systems monitor laser-welded joints in real time. Every battery receives an end-of-line test for quality, safety and functionality.
BMW’s stated manufacturing strategy is to produce batteries near the vehicle plants they supply. It says local production in Shenyang will shorten transport routes and support supply-chain resilience. Battery assembly sites in Woodruff, United States, and San Luis Potosí, Mexico, are expected to begin series production in the coming months, extending the network beyond its three current locations.