BMW Steyr Plant Begins Neue Klasse Electric Motor Production on Two Shifts

BMW Group has expanded its electric vehicle manufacturing operations by commencing two-shift production of electric motors for the Neue Klasse platform at its Steyr facility in Austria. The enhanced production schedule became effective on July 6, 2026, allowing the plant to manufacture more than 4,000 electric motors every week. Production volumes are expected to continue rising as the company prepares for the next phase of its electric mobility strategy and increases output to meet demand for upcoming battery-electric vehicle programs.

The increased manufacturing capacity is intended to support the market introduction of the BMW iX3 Neue Klasse and the future BMW i3. Both models will be equipped with electric drive systems assembled at the Steyr facility, making the plant a key production hub within the company's next-generation electric vehicle program. By supplying these advanced propulsion systems, the site will play a significant role in supporting BMW Group's expanding portfolio of fully electric passenger vehicles.

Production growth is expected to be substantial during 2026. After manufacturing approximately 8,500 electric motors during 2025, the facility now forecasts annual production of well above 100,000 units this year. This significant increase reflects the rapid scaling of BMW Group's electric powertrain manufacturing capabilities and further strengthens the strategic importance of the Steyr plant within the company's global electric vehicle production network.

A second electric drive production line has been operational since April 2026, providing additional manufacturing capacity to accommodate higher production volumes. At the same time, both rotor and stator manufacturing processes have also transitioned to two-shift operations, enabling improved production efficiency while supporting the continued expansion of electric motor output for future Neue Klasse vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has BMW increased electric motor production at the Steyr plant?
BMW Group has expanded production to support the launch of its Neue Klasse electric vehicle lineup, including the BMW iX3 Neue Klasse and the upcoming BMW i3. The move to two-shift production, along with an additional electric drive production line and expanded rotor and stator manufacturing, enables the facility to increase weekly output beyond 4,000 motors while targeting production of well over 100,000 units during 2026, reinforcing the plant's strategic role in the company's electric vehicle manufacturing network.