Škoda Auto Celebrates Production of One Million Battery Systems at Mladá Boleslav Plant

Škoda Auto Celebrates Production of One Million Battery Systems at Mladá Boleslav Plant

(IN BRIEF) Škoda Auto has reached a major milestone by producing its one-millionth high-voltage battery system at its Mladá Boleslav plant. Since starting production in 2019 with batteries for the plug-in hybrid Superb iV, the company now focuses exclusively on batteries for all-electric MEB-based vehicles, such as the Škoda Enyaq and Elroq, as well as models from Volkswagen, SEAT/CUPRA, and Audi. The facility produces 1,500 battery systems daily, with capacities ranging from 52 to 86 kWh. Škoda has heavily invested in expanding its facilities, doubling production capacity in 2023, and upskilling 28,000 employees to meet electromobility demands. A new tomographic center, using advanced CT technology, ensures precise quality control by detecting microscopic irregularities without dismantling the batteries. This milestone underscores Škoda’s leadership in sustainable mobility and its commitment to supporting Volkswagen Group’s electrification strategy, contributing significantly to the shift toward greener transportation.

(PRESS RELEASE) MLADÁ BOLESLAV, 4-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Škoda Auto has reached a significant milestone, producing its one-millionth high-voltage battery system at its flagship plant in Mladá Boleslav. Beginning its battery production journey in 2019 with the plug-in hybrid Superb iV, Škoda now focuses solely on manufacturing batteries for all-electric vehicles built on the Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform.

Driving E-Mobility Across Volkswagen Group Brands

These high-performance batteries, with net capacities ranging from 52 to 86 kWh, power Škoda’s fully electric models like the Enyaq and Elroq, and support other brands within the Volkswagen Group, including Volkswagen, SEAT/CUPRA, and Audi. Operating two advanced assembly lines, the facility currently produces up to 1,500 battery systems daily.

“Producing one million battery systems is a testament to our team’s dedication and the seamless collaboration across Volkswagen Group brands. This achievement underscores Škoda’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable mobility. We are taking bold steps forward, with construction of an additional battery facility already underway,” stated Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics.

A Growing Focus on E-Mobility

Since expanding its facilities in 2023, Škoda Auto has invested heavily in the transition to electromobility. This includes the addition of a second assembly line, doubling production capacity, and the upskilling of over 28,000 employees to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. Each shift sees 90 employees and 82 automated robots work within a 10,500 m² production area, assembling a new battery every 60 seconds.

The modular lithium-ion batteries feature advanced designs with 8 to 13 modules, each containing 16 to 26 cells, tailored to diverse vehicle requirements. These units weigh approximately 490 kilograms and are optimized for efficiency and durability.

Innovation in Quality Control

In June 2024, Škoda Auto unveiled a cutting-edge tomographic center to enhance its quality control processes. Using computed tomography (CT) technology, the facility captures ultra-detailed internal images of battery components, identifying potential irregularities at a microscopic scale of 4 microns. This breakthrough enables comprehensive quality checks without disassembling the battery, even for units already in use.

The Road Ahead

Škoda Auto’s battery systems play a critical role in Volkswagen Group’s electric mobility ambitions, powering vehicles for over five years. With plans to further expand production capacity and a steadfast commitment to technological innovation, Škoda is solidifying its position as a driving force in the global shift toward greener, more efficient transportation.

For additional details about Škoda Auto’s electromobility advancements, visit Škoda Auto’s official website.

Media Contact:

Thomas Drechsler
Head of Communications
e: thomas.drechsler@skoda-auto.cz

SOURCE: Škoda Auto a.s