HV battery system for premium electric sedan

BMW Group and Rimac Technology (Croatia) are collaborating on the development of the high-voltage energy storage system for the fully electric BMW i7. The project integrates BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology with cylindrical lithium-ion cells and modular architectures, aiming to increase range, energy density, and charging efficiency in the premium sedan segment.

Context of the cooperation
The transition to electric mobility requires energy storage systems with higher energy density, reduced charging times, and scalable architectures. In this context, BMW Group has developed its sixth-generation eDrive technology (Gen6), while Rimac Technology contributes expertise in the design and production of high-performance battery systems. The cooperation addresses the need to combine technological development with industrial capability to accelerate the deployment of advanced solutions in premium vehicles.

Technical solution and architecture
The energy storage system uses 4695 cylindrical lithium-ion cells, which provide approximately 20% higher energy density compared to the prismatic cells used in the previous generation. These cells are integrated into a modular architecture that combines elements of the new generation with the established design of the previous one, ensuring structural continuity while improving overall performance.

The increased energy density enables extended vehicle range, while optimized thermal management and charging systems support higher charging capacity and reduced charging times.

Implementation and responsibilities
Rimac Technology manufactures the high-voltage battery system at its facilities in Croatia, using advanced industrial processes for module assembly and integration. The system is delivered ready for installation to the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing, where it is integrated into the vehicle, calibrated, and validated under operational conditions.

Applications and operational impact
The solution is designed for premium electric vehicles requiring high levels of range, performance, and reliability. The use of cylindrical cells and modular architectures supports greater production scalability and an improved ratio between energy capacity and packaging volume. Additionally, overall system efficiency contributes to enhanced vehicle performance under real operating conditions.




Event and timeline
The fully electric BMW i7 will be presented in a world premiere on April 22, 2026, at the Beijing Auto Show.

The collaboration between BMW Group and Rimac Technology represents a joint development model between OEMs and technology suppliers, aimed at the industrial implementation of advanced energy storage systems for electric mobility.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

www.bmwgroup.com