The BMW Group recently celebrated the launch of its new test site in Sokolov, Czechia, known as the Future Mobility Development Center (FMDC). This state-of-the-art facility, the first of its kind in central Europe, represents a significant investment of 300 million euros and will play a crucial role in the company’s future mobility development efforts. The FMDC is designed for the testing of fully automated driving and parking technologies up to level 4, providing the BMW Group with a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of innovation in the automotive industry.
Located in a former mining region, the FMDC has been transformed into an innovation hub that employs over one hundred skilled workers. The site offers the ideal real-world conditions for testing highly and fully automated driving and parking, complementing the virtual simulation of driving situations. By combining virtual simulation with real-world testing, the BMW Group ensures that its vehicles meet the highest safety standards, providing customers with a reliable and customer-oriented driving experience.
Frank Weber, BMW Group’s Board Member for Development, highlighted the capabilities of the new test site, emphasizing its flexibility and efficiency in testing various driving conditions. With 600 hectares of land at their disposal, BMW can run test modules continuously, making the testing process as realistic and reliable as possible. This commitment to excellence in testing and development sets the FMDC apart as a cutting-edge facility in the automotive industry.
In addition to its technological advancements, the FMDC also prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability. Throughout the planning and establishment of the proving ground, BMW worked closely with ecological construction monitoring to ensure that the highest environmental standards were met. The site is powered by 100% green electricity from renewable sources, contributing to the decarbonization of BMW’s global sites. Furthermore, innovative water management systems are in place to collect rainwater for track irrigation, reducing water consumption and promoting sustainability.
The FMDC’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends to the protection and promotion of local biodiversity. Amphibian control systems have been installed to ensure the safe crossing of animals across the proving ground, demonstrating BMW’s dedication to preserving the natural ecosystem. Additionally, the site was built using 2.2 million cubic meters of soil excavated from nearby mining activities, minimizing land sealing and repurposing previously unused land for technological development.
Overall, the Future Mobility Development Center in Sokolov represents a significant milestone for the BMW Group in its pursuit of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the automotive industry. By investing in cutting-edge technology, environmental protection, and sustainable practices, BMW is setting a new standard for future mobility development and testing. The FMDC serves as a testament to BMW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology while prioritizing environmental responsibility and sustainability.