Series Production Begins: BMW Group Opens Plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen

1.16 billion euros for the automotive industry in Lower Bavaria

October 6, 2026

The opening of the new BMW plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen marks the beginning of a new chapter in electric mobility. Starting in October 2026, the BMW Group will produce the latest generation of high-voltage batteries for all-electric BMW models there.

The state-of-the-art factory was built in just two years. With an investment of 1.16 billion euros, the BMW Group underscores the importance of Lower Bavaria as a hub for automotive value creation and electric mobility. At the opening ceremony, Bavaria’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Hubert Aiwanger, described the plant as a “flagship project” and emphasized the importance of joint efforts by local governments, the business community, and policymakers.

With this new facility, the BMW Group is strengthening the region’s position as a hub for economic activity and employment. Once fully operational, up to 1,600 highly skilled jobs are expected to be secured directly in Irlbach-Straßkirchen. “Lower Bavaria remains the heart of our automotive industry,” Aiwanger stated. He added that the investment represents a clear commitment to the region and to the future of the automotive industry in Bavaria.

The Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, together with Invest in Bavaria, has guided and supported the site selection and establishment process from the very beginning. For more information, please refer to the press release from the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development, and Energy.

The new BMW plant thus represents not only the start of series production of high-voltage batteries but also the close collaboration between companies, municipalities, and government institutions in the further development of Bavaria as an industrial hub.