BMW launches new aeroacoustic and electric drive centre

BMW has announced that the new Aeroacoustic and Electric Drive Centre (AEC) will begin operations at its Research and Innovation Centre, replacing the old aeroacoustic tunnel after almost forty years of service.

The AEC consists of two halves: A multifunctional part with workshop, testing and measurement equipment, and a prototype for high-voltage batteries and inverters; and a wind tunnel – the world's largest vertical acoustic and quietest – with a length of just under 100m, a height of 45m, and a width of 25m.

The acoustic wind tunnel is equipped with the latest measurement technology to drive vehicle development forward

With a background noise level as low as a quiet conversation or quiet air conditioning system, the acoustic wind tunnel is equipped with the latest measurement technology to drive vehicle development forward. The wind tunnel is also ideally equipped to study wind and rolling noises by using a full-fledged acoustic all-wheel drive roller dynamometer, with all this ensuring the best aeroacoustics for the Neue Klasse.

The other multifunctional part of the AEC focuses on electric mobility, with experts building and testing prototypes of future high-voltage batteries for electric vehicles. In addition, the spaces in the AEC are designed to be multifunctional, enhancing flexibility in the long term by being able to respond to various future requirements and rebuild the spaces within a short period of time, if the need arises.