BMW has added Samsung SDI and LG Energy Solution to its supplier network for sixth-generation battery cells. According to BMW, the two South Korean manufacturers will supply cylindrical cells from existing plants in Europe and North America. Deliveries are scheduled to start toward the end of the decade. BMW did not disclose volumes, contract values or the specific plants involved.
Regional Sourcing for the Neue Klasse
The Gen6 cells power BMW’s Neue Klasse electric models. In Europe, BMW will source them from CATL, EVE Energy and Samsung SDI. LG Energy Solution will supply North America. BMW says sourcing cells in the regions where it builds vehicles shortens transport routes and improves supply security. According to the company, this also requires substantial investment and stable political conditions.
The cells are assembled into high-voltage batteries at five BMW sites near its vehicle plants. These are Irlbach-Straßkirchen in Germany, Debrecen in Hungary, Shenyang in China, Woodruff in the U.S. and San Luis Potosí in Mexico.
LFP Planned for Some Models
BMW has not specified which cell chemistry the new suppliers will provide. The Gen6 cells used so far are NMC cylindrical cells with a diameter of 46 millimeters. During its third-quarter earnings call, BMW confirmed that some Neue Klasse models will also use LFP batteries. The China-only iX3 30L already does. BMW develops cell technologies at its own competence centers in Munich and Parsdorf.
Sources:
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/bmw-group-localises-supply-chains/
https://www.bmwblog.com/2026/11/09/bmw-adds-samsung-sdi-lg-battery-suppliers/
https://www.bmwblog.com/2026/11/07/bmw-add-lfp-batteries-neue-klasse-evs/
