Factory Overview

Incorporating the highest levels of technology known to the industry, BMW Manufacturing plays a vital role in BMW's standing as a global vehicle manufacturer. Through advancements in education and R&D, the factory is committed to continuous improvement. The following accomplishments stand as proof to the success and growth of the South Carolina factory:

• Fastest factory start-up in automotive history — a record 23 months from construction to shipment of first car — 318i sedan
• BMW's first full manufacturing facility outside Germany
• BMW's first production facility in the United States
• First automobile manufacturing plant in the United States to use water-based (instead of high solvent) paints
• One of the first automobile manufacturers in the United States to earn ISO 14001 certification for meeting or exceeding international environmental standards
• Charter member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National Environmental Performance Track
• Catalyst for the first 100% digitally developed vehicle manufactured by BMW — X5 Sports Activity Vehicle
• BMW Manufacturing Co. in South Carolina is the exclusive manufacturer of the X5 Sports Activity Vehicle, Z4 Roadster, M Roadster, Z4 Coupe, and M Coupe
• By taking a leadership role in Clemson University's International Center for Automotive Research (CUICAR), BMW Manufacturing has become more than just an automotive manufacturing facility
• Through several cutting-edge research and development programs, BMW Manufacturing develops, tests and implements the most innovative ideas in the industry
• Became the world’s first automotive manufacturer to use landfill methane gas to power its paint shop in 2006, which supplies 63% of the plants energy needs

Factory Facts