The BMW Group‘s Dingolfing plant began series production of the new BMW 8 Series Coupé, the sportscar that will launch the BMW model offensive in the luxury segment.
A large number of digital innovations have also been integrated into the production process, including self-driving transport systems and smart devices.
Intelligent lightweight construction, with a clever mix of materials, including steel, plastic, aluminium and carbon fibre, is used in the body of the new sportscar.
In addition to the supporting structures at the front and rear of the vehicle, other components, such as the roof, doors, bonnet and the front firewall of the all-new BMW 8 Series Coupé, are made of aluminium.
For the first time in a series-production BMW model, the roof is available in carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) – which is also manufactured at the Dingolfing location in an innovative wet-pressing process.
The luxury sportscar will roll off the assembly line alongside BMW 5 Series and 7 Series models.
In parallel with ramp-up of the new BMW 8 Series Coupé, digitalisation of logistics and production processes in Dingolfing continues apace.
For example, in door assembly, parts are delivered to the line by autonomous tugger trains; on the finish line, collaborative robots measure gaps and misalignments.
BMW Group Plant Dingolfing increasingly makes use of wearables. These mobile computer technologies worn on the body support staff with their tasks.
In addition to the ProGlove smart glove scanner, a so-called “exotics alarm”, for example, will use the vibrating alarm of a smartwatch to alert staff when a car with non-standard equipment options is coming up and requires special attention.
Virtual reality glasses have also been used for the first time in training assembly staff: Specific assembly processes for the new BMW 8 Series Coupé were videoed and viewed by employees through VR glasses.
This enabled them to familiarise themselves with the new model and the correct fitment process before production ramped up.
Two engine choices will be available when the new BMW 8 Series Coupé goes on sale in November 2018.
