IBM and Dassault Systemes announced that BMW Group has selected CATIA Version 5 (V5) for the design, analysis and manufacture of chassis systems. The agreement includes the purchase of both CATIA and ENOVIAVPM software, run on IBM and other workstations, to create and manage the design of chassis systems for upcoming premium passenger cars.

The first phase of the project will be a pilot implementation to prepare for the future group-wide introduction of CATIA V5 at BMW.The pilot will run parallel to the existing CATIA V4 architecture, with gradual roll-out within the chassis development department. BMW Group expects substantial improvements in product development time with the implementation of CATIA V5.

CATIA V5 enables engineers to streamline the development process and gain efficiency in managing revisions, thus ensuring high-quality 3D prototypes. The software provides the technology, including parameterisation, for quick design modifications of components. Implementation of ENOVIAVPM will also enable the management of multiple links between designs,and give engineers in the company's chassis department the capability to work with other departments and selected suppliers.

CATIA Solutions is a leading computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering (CAD/CAM/CAE) software. ENOVIAVPM is part of ENOVIA Solutions, which provides collaborative product lifecycle management capabilities to create an open, knowledge-based environment that links companies, their customers and their suppliers. Dassault Systemes develops ENOVIAVPM and CATIA; IBM's Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) business unit and IBM Business Partners worldwide market, sell and support them.

CDC (CNC Design Consultants)

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