BMW uses virtual reality to train factory staff

BMW has deployed virtual reality (VR) to train staff at its Woodruff plant on electric vehicle (EV) battery production, ahead of iX5 production starting in December.

A VR training programme developed by BMW sees staff practice EV battery manufacturing operations in realistic conditions, with a virtual rendition of the plant’s production lines.

From December, the site will produce BMW’s Gen6 high-voltage EV batteries for the iX5.

Gen6 batteries use cell-to-pack packaging as well as cylindrical cells for increased energy density.

In-house developed artificial intelligence (AI) assistants analyse production data to ensure quality.

BMW started construction on the Woodruff plant in September 2023 and started test and pre-series battery production in summer 2025.

Raymond Wittman, member of the board of management of BMW AG responsible for Production, said: “Plant Woodruff plays a key role in the ramp-up of electromobility in the US.

“With our Gen6 high-voltage battery, we’re not only taking a major technological leap – we are also setting new standards in production.