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BMW’s new plant in Debrecen, Hungary, is setting new standards with the launch of its cutting-edge paint shop, marking the first facility in BMW’s global network to operate entirely without fossil fuels. The plant will start pre-series production of the Neue Klasse by the end of the year, and the innovative technology used here will serve as a model for future BMW facilities.
At the heart of this eco-friendly development is the power-to-heat system, which replaces natural gas with electricity, significantly reducing the plant’s carbon footprint. This shift is supported by renewable energy sources, ensuring that the entire process is sustainable from start to finish.
Energy efficiency is further enhanced by the Heat Grid system, which consolidates waste heat from various operations to save up to ten percent more energy. The system operates at a lower water supply temperature, maintaining optimal conditions in the paint shop while conserving energy.
The plant employs the eRTO process for exhaust purification, which uses electricity to cleanse exhaust air at high temperatures, making it highly energy-efficient. Additionally, the fully automated dry separation process reduces water usage and recirculates air, cutting down energy requirements even further.
Digitalization plays a crucial role in the efficiency of the Debrecen plant. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven Automated Surface Inspection (AOI) streamline operations, ensuring high standards of production. The entire planning and employee training were conducted virtually, reflecting the plant’s forward-thinking approach.
The Debrecen facility exemplifies BMW’s commitment to sustainability, setting a new benchmark for environmentally-friendly automotive production.
