BMW Uses 3D Scanning Services to Help Produce the New Electric i4 Model EV

BMW is an old company that has been around for a long time and they’re using the latest technology, like 3D laser scanning services, to produce new models.

BMW has always been known for their luxury cars, but in October 2021 they introduced the BMW i4 model EV to compete with Tesla and other electric car makers. The decision to invest in EV technology is a smart move for BMW. But, to make it a reality, the company needed to figure out a clever way to use its existing facilities to produce these new, futuristic cars.

The company knew that their old production facilities might not be able to accommodate the new equipment required for the EV. The layout of the plants was not ideal for an EV and was instead optimized for gas-powered cars. Unlike traditional cars,  the battery and power systems of the i-series EV required new, specialized construction techniques. While the company had skilled engineers and technicians to create the car, would they have enough space in their factory to pull it off?

3D laser scanning services enable the production

3D scanning services were used extensively by BMW to help produce the new electric vehicle. 3D scanning made it possible to fit all of the production equipment in an old building without major renovations or expansions necessary. 

The 3D laser scan process works like this: a 3D scanner is used to scan the entire facility and create a 3D map of it. A computer then takes this 3d data, along with digital plant plans from BMW’s existing production facilities in other locations around the world, and combines them into one cohesive 3D model. 

This allows BMW to see exactly where they can fit all of their equipment in the old facilities. 3D scanning services make it easier for BMW to find places to put their equipment without having to demolish any of the existing building infrastructure. This ultimately led to lower costs and made the project economically viable.

Digital 3d images of their current facilities helped BMW identify spaces where they could place new equipment and machinery for production, such as the battery pack and power systems that are normally installed under a car’s hood. These 3D digital models also showed them just how close together everything could be placed in order to maximize efficiency.

Making full use of new technologies to produce cleaner vehicles

Clean cars are important because they help reduce pollution and the emissions that cause climate change. 3D scanning services can help factories produce more clean cars by locating the right places to put production equipment and machinery. 3D scanning is especially useful when traditional buildings need to be retro-fitted with new 3D technology because 3D scanning allows for this without major renovations or expansions.

3D scanning joined another set of technologies in use by the company, including  RFID tracking for accurate part delivery, reverse osmosis water treatment systems to reduce water consumption, and logistics systems to meet their net-zero emissions goals.

As a car company, climate change is a relevant issue for BMW. 3D scanning services, in conjunction with the other technologies, will help BMW meet its goals of reducing emissions and improving environmental sustainability.