By BMW’s recent collaboration with Rimac Technology marks a significant leap in the pursuit of cutting-edge battery technologies for future electric vehicles. The announcement, made by BMW Group, reveals a strategic partnership aimed at developing and manufacturing high-voltage battery systems that will power upcoming BMW Group models set to debut in the latter half of the decade. This partnership not only underscores BMW’s commitment to innovation but also signals an important moment for Rimac Technology, a division of Rimac Group.
Transitioning into a “high-volume Tier 1 supplier” for battery-electric vehicles represents a remarkable evolution for the Croatian company. Rimac’s journey traces back to founder Mate Rimac’s ambitious project in 2008: converting a 1984 E30-generation BMW 3-Series into a fully electric vehicle. Since then, Rimac has emerged as a trailblazer in the electric car sector, culminating in significant roles such as leading his own company and overseeing operations at Bugatti. The collaboration entails Rimac dedicating a substantial portion of its Croatia campus to BMW battery production, with plans underway for a new factory.
This endeavour is poised to be a historic milestone for Croatia, potentially becoming the largest contract in the country’s history. Rimac’s illustrious 15-year history, highlighted by groundbreaking concepts like Concept One and the production-ready Nevera, showcases the company’s expertise and innovation. Moreover, Rimac’s ongoing projects, including the development of a hybrid V-16 engine for the successor to the Bugatti Chiron, attest to its ambitious pursuits in the automotive industry. BMW’s acknowledgement of Rimac’s prowess in battery pack production, e-axles, and software underscores the depth of expertise brought to the table. While specific details of the partnership remain undisclosed, anticipation mounts as both companies promise to unveil more information in due course.
