The BMW Group and the Regional Center of Excellence for Robotic Technology (CRTA) of the University of Zagreb continue their intensive cooperation on the “Insight” research project. The goal of the project is the development and implementation of practical artificial intelligence models intended to optimize the entire value chain of battery cell production. The research covers all phases, from electrode production and testing at the end of the production line, all the way to direct recycling developed in-house.
At the Battery Cell Center of Excellence (BCCC) in Munich, BMW develops cells for future generations of high-voltage batteries, which requires extensive test series and significant investment. By applying AI networks that analyze existing and real production data, the “Insight” project enables accurate prediction of process parameters. With this approach, the time and amount of material required in the individual steps are reduced by more than 50 percent, while maintaining a high level of quality.
Efficiency and logistics
In addition to test optimization, predictive models also provide support in final product approval. The current process requires a “quarantine” phase, where the cells are stored at precisely specified temperatures after charging before being installed in the housings. The implementation of the AI system enables a complete analysis of cells in advance, which in the future could completely eliminate the need for long-term storage and free up logistics capacity.
The collaboration, which began in 2024, is based on the synergy of theory and practice, whereby doctoral students and students of the University of Zagreb structure production data and create models for recognizing specific patterns. These models enable predictions that directly affect performance, quality and reduce production costs. The university brings expertise from the fields of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computing to the project, while BMW ensures the practical application of the latest scientific discoveries.
Development of young talents
One of the key aspects of the partnership is the development of young experts through intensive mentoring and the expansion of the professional network within the automotive industry. The BMW Group particularly emphasizes the importance of motivating students for careers in the field of AI and battery systems. Such an approach to students, they say, opens up exceptional opportunities on the labor market, simultaneously strengthening the competitiveness of both partners.
Joint work on the “Insight” project not only improves technological processes within BMW, but positions the Zagreb CRTA center as a relevant international partner in the development of high technologies. Through the exchange of knowledge and resources, the collaboration ensures a sustainable model of innovation that directly affects the efficiency of electric vehicle production and the education of future engineers.