BMW cuts engine design time in half with Catia platform

BMW says the time required for designing and shipping new cars has been cut in half as a result of its digital technologies. The automotive giant adds that with this 3D virtual design platform, engineers can create a single reference model for all future BMW engines – already including BMW's industry first hydrogen-powered vehicle. Behind the scenes, IBM and Dassault PLM specialists helped BMW to harmonise and consolidate all mechanical design initiatives into a single digital infrastructure that now provides for latest simulation and testing support. As a result, BMW has developed a series of software design initiatives aimed, for example, at equipping new cars with fuel-saving technologies. The company says that, from designing smaller engines to increasing piston and cylinder performance for better ignition and fuel performance, PLM (product lifecycle management) software also continues to play a key role – digitally sharing master versions of engine and gearbox designs across all stakeholders. The use of one digital reference model that can be updated and shared instantly across the globe, will, says BMW, help it to respond quickly to consumer changes prior to signing off on production and shipment plans.