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11/2009
Page 63
Representing the largest production volume at the Plant, the BMW 5 Series
accounts for up to two-thirds of the total production capacity. Flexible use
of the production facilities allows continuous, ongoing adjustment of the
individual model series within overall production at the Plant, thus ensuring
both consistent use of production capacity and rapid delivery of new cars
to the customer. A further advantage is the many options provided in this
way to increase the efficiency of the production process.
Greater efficiency and quality through common
vehicle architecture and modular components.
The BMW 7 Series, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the new
BMW 5 Series Sedan share many features and joint processes in
both development and production. Indeed, the joint architecture of these
vehicles developed in a common process sets the foundation for integrated
production allowing a flexible response to customer demands.
The modular system of vehicle components provides further synergy effects.
These components share the same basic concept and are used in model-
specific and modified variants also for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan. In their
function and quality, these components follow the same supreme standards
already applied to the luxury sedan in the BMW 7 Series. One example is
the development of the axle subframes as an overriding construction on both
model series, with appropriate fastening and attachment openings for the
track of each model. Another example is the seats of the new BMW 5 Series
Sedan, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the BMW 7 Series, which again
share the same structure but differ from one another through their stitching
and leather upholstery.
The technology required for the air conditioning, to mention yet another
example, comes in various modules beneath the surface, then being fitted in
accordance with the customer’s wishes both in the BMW 5 Series Sedan,
the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, and the BMW 7 Series.
Permanent progress in production.
The latest know-how gained in the development of modern production
processes is applied at BMW Plant Dingolfing in the production of cars.
An important example of such new processes is the modular process
concept: Proceeding from the use of shared vehicle components on the
BMW 7 Series, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, and BMW 5 Series Sedan,
the production specialists apply standardised production processes
combining supreme quality in the production of various models on one line
with standardised production planning bringing all models together.
Examples of such modular processes are the installation of the car’s seats,