BMW i Ventures

BMW i Ventures, established in 2011, is the corporate venture capital arm of BMW Group, headquartered in Mountain View, California. The company invests globally in innovative, high-growth technology startups that align with BMW's current and future business, focusing on areas such as electric mobility, autonomous driving, digitalization, and sustainability across manufacturing, transportation, and services. BMW i Ventures provides series A and B-stage investments, typically ranging from EUR 500,000 to EUR 10 million, to support these companies' growth and ensure real-world impact.

Marcus Behrendt

Managing Director

Allen Chen

Senior Associate

Margret Dupslaff

Associate

Baris Guzel

Principal

Michael Hammer

CFO

Uwe Higgen

Managing Director and Managing Partner

Samantha Huang

Principal

Thomas Molleker

Associate

Thao Nguyen

Senior Associate

Sohaila Ouffata

Director of Platform

Kasper Sage

Managing Partner

Tom Springer

Analyst

Scott Walbrun

Principal

Past deals in Electric Vehicle

AMPECO

Series B in 2024
AMPECO provides a comprehensive software platform for managing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, allowing large-scale operators to launch and scale their businesses under their own brand. Its white-label, hardware-agnostic platform accommodates various charging scenarios, including public, private, and home charging. Key features include advanced energy management, automated billing, subscription management, and maintenance algorithms, which enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs for charging station owners. The platform is designed with security and scalability in mind, enabling energy companies, fleets, hardware manufacturers, and installers to quickly bring their services to market. AMPECO currently supports over 110 network operators across more than 45 markets and has received recognition for its technological innovation, including the 2022 Global Product Leadership Award from Frost & Sullivan.

Cyclic Materials

Series B in 2024
Cyclic Materials specializes in recycling services that focus on recovering rare earth elements, aiming to minimize the need for new mining and support the shift towards electric mobility and cleaner energy solutions. The company employs an innovative process to extract critical metals from landfill-bound products, which can then be reintegrated into the manufacturing supply chain. By providing these recovered materials, Cyclic Materials assists industries such as wind energy, electric vehicles, and electronics in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing local supply, ultimately promoting a circular economy and sustainable resource management.

DeepDrive

Series B in 2024
DeepDrive is a Munich-based high-tech company specializing in advanced drive units for electric vehicles. The company has developed patented DeepDrive Dual Rotor technology, which enhances vehicle range by up to 20% while significantly reducing production costs. This innovative technology allows for compact and torque-dense drive units that can be integrated within vehicle wheels or used as traditional central drives. DeepDrive's solutions are designed for low-cost, large-scale production, aiming to deliver maximum performance and efficiency. The company collaborates with eight of the top ten automakers on various development projects and plans to launch its Dual Rotor technology for mass production by 2026. Supported by a team of over 30 experts from the automotive industry, DeepDrive has garnered investment from notable entities, including BMW i Ventures and Continental's CVC, as well as industry veterans.

Lilac Solutions

Series C in 2024
Lilac Solutions, Inc. is a mining technology company focused on lithium extraction, providing innovative technology and services to lithium producers. The company specializes in ion exchange beads and continuous brine processing systems, which enable the efficient production of high-purity lithium solutions from various brine resources. This technology, grounded in ion-exchange theory, allows lithium producers to enhance project development, improve lithium recovery rates, and optimize operational efficiency while also minimizing costs and environmental impact. Lilac Solutions serves industries such as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. Incorporated in 2015, the company is headquartered in Oakland, California.

May Mobility

Series D in 2023
May Mobility, Inc. is an autonomous vehicle company focused on transforming urban transportation through the development and operation of driverless shuttle services. Founded in 2017 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company utilizes six-passenger electric vehicles that navigate mapped routes to provide micro-transit services for enterprise and municipal clients. By analyzing traffic patterns and commuter flows, May Mobility designs optimal routes that enhance public transit systems. Their autonomous shuttles aim to minimize human error in driving, reduce pollution, and improve economic benefits for communities and riders. The company offers a fleet operation service that contributes to creating safer, more efficient, and accessible transportation solutions.

Cyclic Materials

Series A in 2023
Cyclic Materials specializes in recycling services that focus on recovering rare earth elements, aiming to minimize the need for new mining and support the shift towards electric mobility and cleaner energy solutions. The company employs an innovative process to extract critical metals from landfill-bound products, which can then be reintegrated into the manufacturing supply chain. By providing these recovered materials, Cyclic Materials assists industries such as wind energy, electric vehicles, and electronics in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing local supply, ultimately promoting a circular economy and sustainable resource management.

DeepDrive

Series A in 2023
DeepDrive is a Munich-based high-tech company specializing in advanced drive units for electric vehicles. The company has developed patented DeepDrive Dual Rotor technology, which enhances vehicle range by up to 20% while significantly reducing production costs. This innovative technology allows for compact and torque-dense drive units that can be integrated within vehicle wheels or used as traditional central drives. DeepDrive's solutions are designed for low-cost, large-scale production, aiming to deliver maximum performance and efficiency. The company collaborates with eight of the top ten automakers on various development projects and plans to launch its Dual Rotor technology for mass production by 2026. Supported by a team of over 30 experts from the automotive industry, DeepDrive has garnered investment from notable entities, including BMW i Ventures and Continental's CVC, as well as industry veterans.

AMPECO

Series A in 2023
AMPECO provides a comprehensive software platform for managing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, allowing large-scale operators to launch and scale their businesses under their own brand. Its white-label, hardware-agnostic platform accommodates various charging scenarios, including public, private, and home charging. Key features include advanced energy management, automated billing, subscription management, and maintenance algorithms, which enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs for charging station owners. The platform is designed with security and scalability in mind, enabling energy companies, fleets, hardware manufacturers, and installers to quickly bring their services to market. AMPECO currently supports over 110 network operators across more than 45 markets and has received recognition for its technological innovation, including the 2022 Global Product Leadership Award from Frost & Sullivan.

Fox Robotics

Venture Round in 2022
Fox Robotics, founded in 2017, specializes in autonomous pallet workflows designed to enhance safety and productivity in warehouses across the U.S. and Canada. The company develops and manufactures the FoxBot, the world's first autonomous trailer loader and unloader, which is capable of significantly increasing workplace productivity by two to three times. These self-driving forklifts can be seamlessly integrated into existing warehouse systems, allowing companies to automate operations while also reducing their environmental impact. Fox Robotics is supported by investments from notable firms such as BMW i Ventures and Zebra Technologies Corp.

AutoBrains

Series C in 2022
AutoBrains is a developer of a visual intelligence platform designed to enhance the safety and effectiveness of autonomous driving services. The platform leverages advanced artificial intelligence, employing signature-based representation structures and unsupervised learning methodologies to create a detailed understanding of the vehicle's surroundings. This technology supports various applications, including advanced driver assistance systems and vehicle localization, ultimately aiming to improve car safety and reduce casualties on global roadways. With a foundation of over 200 patents, AutoBrains' self-learning technology represents a significant advancement in automotive visual intelligence.

Our Next Energy

Series A in 2022
Our Next Energy is a Michigan-based company founded in 2020 that specializes in developing energy storage technology aimed at enhancing access to sustainable power. The company focuses on safer battery chemistries utilizing sustainable raw materials, while ensuring a reliable, low-cost, and conflict-free supply chain. It aims to improve energy density and safety in battery technology, catering to mobility and grid storage applications. By employing a dual-chemistry design, Our Next Energy provides innovative power solutions that enable original equipment manufacturers to meet market range expectations effectively.

May Mobility

Series C in 2022
May Mobility, Inc. is an autonomous vehicle company focused on transforming urban transportation through the development and operation of driverless shuttle services. Founded in 2017 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company utilizes six-passenger electric vehicles that navigate mapped routes to provide micro-transit services for enterprise and municipal clients. By analyzing traffic patterns and commuter flows, May Mobility designs optimal routes that enhance public transit systems. Their autonomous shuttles aim to minimize human error in driving, reduce pollution, and improve economic benefits for communities and riders. The company offers a fleet operation service that contributes to creating safer, more efficient, and accessible transportation solutions.

HeyCharge

Seed Round in 2022
HeyCharge is a Munich-based company founded in 2020 that specializes in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and payment systems. It focuses on providing charging solutions for homes and apartments, offering low-cost, plug-and-play chargers that do not require internet connectivity. This technology allows for easy integration with third-party products, enabling customers to access smart charging services at an affordable price. Through its innovative approach, HeyCharge aims to enhance the accessibility and convenience of electric vehicle charging for consumers.

GaN Systems

Venture Round in 2021
GaN Systems Inc. is a semiconductor company based in Ottawa, Canada, specializing in the development and manufacturing of gallium nitride power switching transistors. The company offers a variety of products, including 650 V and 100 V E-HEMT transistors and wireless power amplifiers, which are utilized in diverse applications such as consumer electronics, industrial systems, renewable energy sources, and transportation power conversion. GaN Systems aims to address significant challenges in power system efficiency and size limitations, enabling industries to reduce costs and enhance energy efficiency. The company serves a global market, including manufacturers in Japan, Taiwan, and China, with additional offices in Japan, China, and Germany. Established in 2008, GaN Systems continues to innovate in the clean technology power conversion sector.

AutoBrains

Series C in 2021
AutoBrains is a developer of a visual intelligence platform designed to enhance the safety and effectiveness of autonomous driving services. The platform leverages advanced artificial intelligence, employing signature-based representation structures and unsupervised learning methodologies to create a detailed understanding of the vehicle's surroundings. This technology supports various applications, including advanced driver assistance systems and vehicle localization, ultimately aiming to improve car safety and reduce casualties on global roadways. With a foundation of over 200 patents, AutoBrains' self-learning technology represents a significant advancement in automotive visual intelligence.

Our Next Energy

Series A in 2021
Our Next Energy is a Michigan-based company founded in 2020 that specializes in developing energy storage technology aimed at enhancing access to sustainable power. The company focuses on safer battery chemistries utilizing sustainable raw materials, while ensuring a reliable, low-cost, and conflict-free supply chain. It aims to improve energy density and safety in battery technology, catering to mobility and grid storage applications. By employing a dual-chemistry design, Our Next Energy provides innovative power solutions that enable original equipment manufacturers to meet market range expectations effectively.

Lilac Solutions

Series B in 2021
Lilac Solutions, Inc. is a mining technology company focused on lithium extraction, providing innovative technology and services to lithium producers. The company specializes in ion exchange beads and continuous brine processing systems, which enable the efficient production of high-purity lithium solutions from various brine resources. This technology, grounded in ion-exchange theory, allows lithium producers to enhance project development, improve lithium recovery rates, and optimize operational efficiency while also minimizing costs and environmental impact. Lilac Solutions serves industries such as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. Incorporated in 2015, the company is headquartered in Oakland, California.

Solid Power

Debt Financing in 2021
Solid Power Inc. specializes in the development of solid-state rechargeable batteries that are free from volatile or flammable liquid components. Founded in 2011 and based in Louisville, Colorado, the company focuses on creating batteries for various applications, including electric vehicles, portable electronics, aircraft, and satellites. Its solid-state batteries are designed to be energy-dense, safe, and reliable, offering significant improvements in performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Solid Power aims to license its battery cell designs and manufacturing expertise to leading battery manufacturers and automotive original equipment manufacturers, while also selling its proprietary sulfide-based solid electrolyte for use in all-solid-state battery cells.

Turntide

Series B in 2020
Turntide is a company focused on creating sustainable technologies aimed at reducing energy consumption and operational expenses in various sectors, including buildings, agriculture, and electric transportation. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, Turntide has developed an innovative electric motor system that utilizes advanced switched reluctance technology. This system is managed by sophisticated cloud software and incorporates IoT connectivity for precise control. By targeting the significant energy waste attributed to traditional electric motors, Turntide aims to support the shift away from fossil fuels and promote a more sustainable future. The company's efforts are geared towards eliminating the 25% of global electricity consumption that is currently wasted, thereby accelerating the transition to 100% renewable energy.

AutoBrains

Series B in 2019
AutoBrains is a developer of a visual intelligence platform designed to enhance the safety and effectiveness of autonomous driving services. The platform leverages advanced artificial intelligence, employing signature-based representation structures and unsupervised learning methodologies to create a detailed understanding of the vehicle's surroundings. This technology supports various applications, including advanced driver assistance systems and vehicle localization, ultimately aiming to improve car safety and reduce casualties on global roadways. With a foundation of over 200 patents, AutoBrains' self-learning technology represents a significant advancement in automotive visual intelligence.

May Mobility

Series A in 2019
May Mobility, Inc. is an autonomous vehicle company focused on transforming urban transportation through the development and operation of driverless shuttle services. Founded in 2017 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company utilizes six-passenger electric vehicles that navigate mapped routes to provide micro-transit services for enterprise and municipal clients. By analyzing traffic patterns and commuter flows, May Mobility designs optimal routes that enhance public transit systems. Their autonomous shuttles aim to minimize human error in driving, reduce pollution, and improve economic benefits for communities and riders. The company offers a fleet operation service that contributes to creating safer, more efficient, and accessible transportation solutions.

ChargePoint

Series H in 2018
ChargePoint, Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Campbell, California, operates the world’s leading network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Initially known as Coulomb Technologies, the company rebranded in December 2012. ChargePoint offers a range of charging solutions, including public charging stations, consumer subscription plans, and cloud-based services that assist utility companies in managing electric demand. Its hardware products cater to various applications, including home, commercial, and fast-charging systems. The ChargePoint app enhances user experience by allowing consumers to locate, reserve, and monitor their charging sessions. Although it has a global presence with offices in Arizona, Germany, India, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, the majority of ChargePoint's revenue is generated in the United States.

May Mobility

Seed Round in 2018
May Mobility, Inc. is an autonomous vehicle company focused on transforming urban transportation through the development and operation of driverless shuttle services. Founded in 2017 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company utilizes six-passenger electric vehicles that navigate mapped routes to provide micro-transit services for enterprise and municipal clients. By analyzing traffic patterns and commuter flows, May Mobility designs optimal routes that enhance public transit systems. Their autonomous shuttles aim to minimize human error in driving, reduce pollution, and improve economic benefits for communities and riders. The company offers a fleet operation service that contributes to creating safer, more efficient, and accessible transportation solutions.

GaN Systems

Corporate Round in 2017
GaN Systems Inc. is a semiconductor company based in Ottawa, Canada, specializing in the development and manufacturing of gallium nitride power switching transistors. The company offers a variety of products, including 650 V and 100 V E-HEMT transistors and wireless power amplifiers, which are utilized in diverse applications such as consumer electronics, industrial systems, renewable energy sources, and transportation power conversion. GaN Systems aims to address significant challenges in power system efficiency and size limitations, enabling industries to reduce costs and enhance energy efficiency. The company serves a global market, including manufacturers in Japan, Taiwan, and China, with additional offices in Japan, China, and Germany. Established in 2008, GaN Systems continues to innovate in the clean technology power conversion sector.

Proterra

Series F in 2017
Proterra Inc. is a manufacturer of zero-emission electric buses, primarily focused on providing sustainable transportation solutions for public and commercial transit. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Burlingame, California, with additional offices in Greenville, South Carolina, and City of Industry, California, Proterra designs its products, including 35-foot and 40-foot electric buses, to meet the diverse needs of urban and regional transit routes. The company's Catalyst platform is noted for its modularity, allowing it to adapt to various operational demands while delivering high energy efficiency. Proterra also offers a broad range of services, including vehicle electrification solutions, fleet planning, charging infrastructure, and comprehensive vehicle maintenance programs. By facilitating the transition away from fossil fuels, Proterra aims to enhance environmental quality and reduce operational costs for fleet operators, contributing to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

ChargePoint

Series G in 2017
ChargePoint, Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Campbell, California, operates the world’s leading network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Initially known as Coulomb Technologies, the company rebranded in December 2012. ChargePoint offers a range of charging solutions, including public charging stations, consumer subscription plans, and cloud-based services that assist utility companies in managing electric demand. Its hardware products cater to various applications, including home, commercial, and fast-charging systems. The ChargePoint app enhances user experience by allowing consumers to locate, reserve, and monitor their charging sessions. Although it has a global presence with offices in Arizona, Germany, India, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, the majority of ChargePoint's revenue is generated in the United States.

ChargePoint

Series E in 2014
ChargePoint, Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Campbell, California, operates the world’s leading network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Initially known as Coulomb Technologies, the company rebranded in December 2012. ChargePoint offers a range of charging solutions, including public charging stations, consumer subscription plans, and cloud-based services that assist utility companies in managing electric demand. Its hardware products cater to various applications, including home, commercial, and fast-charging systems. The ChargePoint app enhances user experience by allowing consumers to locate, reserve, and monitor their charging sessions. Although it has a global presence with offices in Arizona, Germany, India, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, the majority of ChargePoint's revenue is generated in the United States.

Chargemaster

Venture Round in 2013
Chargemaster Plc is a leading provider of electric vehicle charging solutions with over 25 years of experience in the telematics and vehicle infrastructure sector. The company offers a diverse range of products, including mounted units, rapid charge units, home and workplace charging solutions, as well as specialized accessories designed to meet the evolving demands of the electric vehicle market. Chargemaster collaborates with energy providers, vehicle manufacturers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to deliver flexible and practical charging solutions. By integrating advancements in technology and data, Chargemaster ensures that its products remain relevant and effective, catering to the needs of homes, businesses, and the public sector.

ChargePoint

Series D in 2012
ChargePoint, Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Campbell, California, operates the world’s leading network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Initially known as Coulomb Technologies, the company rebranded in December 2012. ChargePoint offers a range of charging solutions, including public charging stations, consumer subscription plans, and cloud-based services that assist utility companies in managing electric demand. Its hardware products cater to various applications, including home, commercial, and fast-charging systems. The ChargePoint app enhances user experience by allowing consumers to locate, reserve, and monitor their charging sessions. Although it has a global presence with offices in Arizona, Germany, India, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, the majority of ChargePoint's revenue is generated in the United States.
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