The companies BMW and NTT Data have recently set their sights on Romania to revolutionize Industry 4.0. But what are the reasons driving these industry giants to invest in this Eastern European country? Let’s explore together the motivations behind this strategic choice that promises to profoundly transform the global industrial landscape.
Strategic Location: Romania
The BMW Group and NTT Data have chosen Romania as an IT and software hub to accelerate their digital transformation. Cluj-Napoca, a university city known for its dynamic environment in innovation and IT talent, has proven to be a strategic choice. Located in the Transylvania region, this city offers an attractive combination of local resources and growth prospects for Industry 4.0 technologies.
Partnership with NTT Data
The partnership between BMW and NTT Data, which has lasted for 30 years, has played a crucial role in this decision. NTT Data brings expertise in agile software development and in-depth knowledge of the IT landscape in Romania. This collaboration allows them to combine strengths to deliver innovative and transformative solutions in production and intelligent logistics.
Expansion of TechWorks Centers
With the opening of BMW TechWorks Romania, the automaker is strengthening its network of TechWorks centers already present in Germany, South Africa, the USA, Portugal, and China. This site is expected to double its number of employees to 250 by the end of 2024 and aims to employ over 1,000 people in the long term. This development supports BMW’s ABC (Agile, Bold, Creative) strategy for more flexible and efficient factories.
Innovation and Growth Objectives
The new establishment aims to develop “centralized building blocks for IT projects” in the European region, focusing on cloud innovations and AI. The project also aims to create double-digit revenue in millions by the end of the year. By emphasizing supply chain connectivity and direct sales models, BMW intends to modernize its IT production infrastructure, a cornerstone of the iFactory strategy.
Advantages of the Region for IT Development
Cluj-Napoca is recognized for its innovation-friendly ecosystem, entrepreneurial spirit, startups, and high density of IT talent. This conducive environment is expected to attract skilled talent to support the rapid growth of BMW TechWorks. The excellent technical education provided by local universities also plays a major role in this location.
Impacts for Customers and the Industry
By strengthening their footprint in the EU, BMW and NTT Data aim to enhance their customers’ digital experience. The development of innovative solutions and their rapid implementation using the latest technologies, such as cloud innovations and AI, will not only benefit customers but also revolutionize the automotive industry in terms of production and efficiency.
List of Strategic Advantages of Romania
| Local Strengths | Goals of BMW and NTT Data |
| Dynamic innovation environment | Accelerate digital transformation |
| Strong IT infrastructure | Develop advanced production solutions |
| Universities with quality technical education | Attract skilled talent |
| Startup-friendly ecosystem | Support long-term growth objectives |
| Local knowledge and long-standing partnership | Combine expertise and innovate |
