Landkreis Potsdam-Mittelmark

I have not been in a manufacturing plant since I retired from Abbott. But plants no matter what they make are fascinating machines to tour. Yes a plant is basically a giant machine. An orchestrated dance that takes input to produce an output. Similar to a car that takes input(gasoline) to produce output(energy) to move the car.
2023 is the 100 year anniversary of BMW began motorbikes manufacturing starting with the R32. However, BMW first began by building aircraft engines. The tour lasted an hour and a half covering the logistics warehouse where parts are delivered, inventoried and stored to wait for production. All of the activity is done by robots.
Next was assembling the frame and all the parts attached such as wiring and harness, handlebar components, etc. The engines are the only item that is produced at the plant. All other components are sourced externally.
Once the frame is partially assembled it travels via conveyor through multiple station where technicians add more parts this simplifies the assembly process.
In the final step each bike is tested certifying it is road worthy.
All the parts carrying robots that move through the plant are designed and built by BMW engineers.
Much information was share yes but no pictures allowed. Some important points.
1. Bikes were originally made in Munich production move here in 1969.
2. The berlin plant makes bikes for the world except countries with law requires final assembly in country assembly, i.e., Brazil.
3. 4000 employees
4. 800 bikes produced daily
5. 1 million parts to make 800 bikes, daily!
6. The GS is the biggest seller worldwide. I ride a GS.
7. An electric scooter is in production.
8. 1,923 RNineT bikes all numbered 1 will be made in celebration of the 100 year anniversary. Get your order in!
As a diehard brand loyal enthusiast the tour was well worth it. But if any of you have a product you love call the company to ask if they give tours. Many of them do. Highly recommend; great learning experiences.
BTW, the facility is near the Zitadelle Spandau a fortress built in the 16th century that played a role during WWII. It’s a historic place to visit and it’s fortified inner courtyard hosts open air concerts where my wife and I got to see PJ Harvey.Read more