BMW Group has unveiled the UK’s first motionless wind energy system at the Mini manufacturing plant in Oxford.
This groundbreaking project, developed in collaboration with Aeromine Technologies, aims to generate clean energy through an innovative, low-impact design that produces power without visible moving parts. This pilot project will test the technology’s potential to enhance energy efficiency at BMW facilities worldwide, as well as in commercial buildings across the UK. This trial is part of the BMW Startup Garage, which supports early-stage startups by acting as a venture client, commissioning new technologies for BMW’s needs.
According to Aeromine Technologies, their wind energy unit features innovative vertical airfoils designed to capture wind energy uniquely. Positioned on the edge of buildings and aligned with prevailing winds, the system generates electricity through a vacuum effect created by wing-like airfoils. Unlike traditional wind turbines, the Aeromine design is bladeless, minimizing noise, vibrations, and environmental impact, including on wildlife.
“This new technology is a crucial step in BMW’s pursuit of energy-efficient solutions,” said Carmen Gargioni, Team Lead Innovation at BMW Group Real Estate Management. “The BMW Startup Garage connects startups with our business units, allowing us to explore innovative ideas that can meet our needs.”
The motionless wind energy unit complements the existing solar power infrastructure at the Mini Plant Oxford. The facility has housed one of the UK’s largest roof-mounted solar farms for the past decade, with over 11,000 panels generating enough electricity to power 850 homes annually. However, during winter and at night, solar panels are less effective, and that’s where Aeromine’s wind energy unit steps in, continuing to generate renewable energy when wind conditions are optimal.
“The pilot project is a small yet exciting addition to our renewable energy efforts,” said Urs Sambale, Project Manager for Sustainability Steering at BMW Group Real Estate Europe.
“We are eager to see how this motionless wind energy system can contribute to clean energy production at BMW Group sites.”
