Volkswagen Group Components has opened one of the most modern laboratories for cell research and development in Europe in Salzgitter. The company is thus further expanding its expertise in battery technology. It thus takes the next step in the development and production of proprietary battery cells for electromobility.
From 2025, the Volkswagen unified cell will roll off the assembly line in Salzgitter. In future, around 250 experts will conduct research in the field of cell development, analysis and testing in a total of four laboratories. Volkswagen is investing around 70 million euros in the facilities.
Expertise in battery technology
"With the new state-of-the-art laboratories, we are further expanding our expertise in battery cell development and production. The centre in Salzgitter shows how successful the German car industry's transformation from conventional drive systems to e-mobility can be," saysThomas Schmall. He is board member for technology at Volkswagen AG, chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Group Components and responsible for the Roadmap for battery and charging technology for all Volkswagen Group brands.
Proprietary cell production
“With the opening of the laboratories, we are reaching the next strategic milestone. We are now pressing ahead with preparations for our own cell production. All activities at the Centre of Excellence Battery Cell in Salzgitter are geared towards providing customers of all Volkswagen Group brands with electric models. These models will offer the greatest possible range, charging performance, durability and safety,” Schmall continued.
Future plans
The new self-developed battery cell is scheduled to roll off the production line from 2025. Together with partners, the Volkswagen Group expects to have six cell plants operational in Europe by 2030. This will account for a production capacity of 240 GWh. By developing batteries in-house, Volkswagen expects to save up to 50% on battery costs.
Salzgitter
The centre in Salzgitter is responsible for Group-wide material testing, release testing and quality assurance. The tasks also include monitoring cells for battery packs in electric cars. Of the approximately 500 employees at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) Battery Cell in Salzgitter, around 160 are currently involved in battery cell development. By the end of 2022, the CoE is expected to have grown to more than 1,000 employees. About 250 of them are specialists in research, analysis and development of suitable cell materials and formats.
Photos: Volkswagen AG
