As of: 03/23/2022 6:23 p.m
Volkswagen has announced a total of six large factories for the production of battery cells for electric cars in Europe. Billions are now flowing into locations in Spain. Other companies are also investing in the technology.
The Volkswagen Group has confirmed plans for a new battery cell factory in Spain. The plant is to be built in Sagunto in the Valencia region, around 300 kilometers south-west of the headquarters of the VW subsidiary Seat near Barcelona. The group intends to invest a total of around seven billion euros in Spain.
Well-trained professionals
The money should not only go to battery production – VW is also interested in other parts of the production process related to e-mobility. The group also wants to put money into the electrification of the plants in Matorell and Pamplona in northern Spain.
From Volkswagen’s point of view, the site near Valencia on the Mediterranean coast offers good conditions: Among other things, there is a well-trained workforce, good logistical connections and green energy. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed Volkswagen’s decision. He wrote on Twitter that Spain’s transformation is progressing steadily.
More independence from suppliers from Asia
From 2026, 3,000 employees are to work in the plant near Valencia. However, the project is still subject to final approvals – and that Volkswagen’s application for a subsidy program from the Spanish government is successful.
Overall, VW, together with partners, wants to build six gigafactories in Europe in the coming years – also to become less dependent on suppliers from Asia. After the Salzgitter site in Lower Saxony, Valencia will be VW’s second European cell factory under its own management. Volkswagen operates a third battery cell factory together with its partner Northvolt in Skelleftea, Sweden.
Another factory is built in Italy
An alliance of the two car manufacturers Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz and the oil company Total also announced today the construction of a new factory for battery cells. Production will take place in Italy.
Battery cells are the heart of e-cars. Their performance determines the range and thus the acceptance of the vehicles. Adequate supply is considered crucial for the rapid expansion of electromobility.
With information from Franka Welz, ARD Studio Madrid.
VW plans gigafactory in Spain
Franka Welz, ARD Madrid, March 23, 2022 6:41 p.m