Borgward Group AG, the reincarnation of a German automaker that ceased operations in 1961, has formed partnerships with SAP, LG Electronics and Robert Bosch to support its plan to launch a line of EVs and PHEVs in Europe.

LG Electronics will work with Borgward to develop batteries and other EV components such as electric air-conditioning compressors.

Bosch will help Borgward with further development of the company’s electric drivetrain, as well as components for motor control units, dynamic handling systems, starter generators, electronic steering systems and multimedia systems.

SAP will supply the software to network Borgward’s R&D, production, sales and service operations.

Borgward recently opened a plant in Beijing that has a maximum annual capacity of 160,000 units, which can be expanded to 360,000 units in a second phase.

The company’s first model, the BX7 plug-in hybrid SUV, will be launched at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show. The BX5 prototype and BX6 TS show car will also be on display.

Borgward CEO Ulrich Walker says that in the medium term, the company hopes to sell more than 500,000 units per year.

Source: Borgward via Green Car Congress