BMW Mexico’s Raúl Gamboa on export strategy, EV logistics and AI
At Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2026, BMW’s Raúl Gamboa explains how Plant San Luis Potosí is adapting to shifting trade flows, scaling EV logistics and using real-time vehicle data to drive smarter, more resilient operations.
A global export hub built for flexibility
BMW Group’s plant in San Luis Potosí has evolved into a highly flexible export hub, serving multiple global markets with a diversified outbound strategy. More than half of production is shipped to Europe, alongside growing volumes to Asia and the rest of North America. That diversification is proving critical as trade dynamics shift.
In this Red Sofa interview at Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2026, Raúl Gamboa, head of logistics, production control and production systems at the OEM's Mexican plant, explains how that global footprint is shaping logistics operations.
Turning volatility into opportunity
Rather than creating disruption, changing trade flows are opening new opportunities for BMW’s logistics network. Gamboa highlights how the company’s production system is designed for cross-plant flexibility, allowing vehicles to be allocated dynamically across regions. This approach enables the plant to respond quickly to demand shifts while maintaining efficiency across long-distance supply chains.
EV logistics brings new complexity
The introduction of fully electric vehicles at the plant marks a major change in logistics requirements. Handling battery cells, ensuring safe transport conditions and integrating charging considerations into outbound distribution all add layers of operational complexity.
These challenges require new processes, tighter controls and closer coordination across the supply chain.
Real-time data and AI unlock new efficiencies
At the same time, new vehicle architectures are creating opportunities to transform logistics through data and digitalisation.
Gamboa points to the growing ability to connect directly with vehicles in real time, enabling:
- Predictive insights into potential issues
- Improved visibility across the logistics chain
- New optimisation opportunities in distribution and handling
This shift is moving logistics beyond physical movement into a more data-driven, intelligent system.
From outbound logistics to end-to-end innovation
Critically, these innovations are not limited to outbound delivery.
By integrating vehicle data, digital tools and AI-driven insights, BMW is exploring ways to enhance performance across the entire logistics chain, from plant operations to final delivery.
