Volkswagen Group has opened a pilot line for small-series battery cell production at the Center of Excellence (CoE) in Salzgitter, Germany.
As a first step, VW is investing over €100m (US$110m) in amassing its own battery development and production know-how. With some 300 experts developing, testing and piloting innovative manufacturing technologies for the production of lithium-ion batteries.
In addition, Volkswagen is investing a further €900m ($US989m) in joint battery activities with the Swedish battery producer Northvolt. Construction of a 16gWh battery cell factory in Salzgitter is to start in 2020, with first production penned for late 2023 or early 2024.
Dr. Stefan Sommer, Member of the VW board of management responsible for procurement, said: “Bringing together the development, testing and pilot production of battery cells in Salzgitter marks a further milestone in the Volkswagen Group’s comprehensive electric offensive.”
“By pooling know-how at this site, we are making sure we drive forward our own activities to further advance the development of battery cells as a key component in electrification, develop new standards and swiftly transition them to series production.”