Tag: germany

Schaeffler to cut nearly 3,500 jobs and shut down five plants in Europe

Tier one supplier Schaeffler has announced additional measures as part of its latest performance improvement programme that will see the company eliminate 3,460 positions across Europe and close five sites in the region.

James McLoughlin

Volkswagen opens first industrial dismantling line as part of circular economy strategy

Volkswagen has opened its first industrial dismantling line as part of a circular economy transformation at its Zwickau plant in Germany. The investment comes amid uncertainty over the plant’s future vehicle production, as the automaker pursues a wider restructuring programme.

James McLoughlin

Audi unveils humanoid proof of concept to automate parts sequencing in Ingolstadt

At a recent event in Berlin, Audi, Agile Robots, Dassault Systèmes and Nvidia announced that the four companies are collaborating on a proof of concept to automate parts sequencing at Audi's Ingolstadt plant using AI-powered mobile humanoids.

James McLoughlin

BMW Group scales use of automated driving technology across four European plants

One million vehicles have now been moved using automated driving technology across four BMW Group plants in Europe, with plans to roll out the technology in North America next at Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina.

James McLoughlin

France and Germany propose softening EU emissions rules and UK 'Made in Europe' eligibility

On October 16, 2026, France and Germany announced that they have reached an agreement on a joint approach to securing the future of the European automotive industry. This joint plan includes proposals to further soften CO2 emissions reduction requirements and include the UK as a trusted partner in the EU's 'Made in Europe' rules.

James McLoughlin

BMW begins construction of hydrogen pipeline at Leipzig plant

Construction of a new hydrogen pipeline that will connect BMW Group Plant Leipzig to the hydrogen grid is officially underway. Upon completion of the pipeline, the facility will be the first vehicle plant in the world with a direct connection to a hydrogen grid, with the gas to be used to power intralogistics and the site's paint shop.

James McLoughlin

BLG Logistics starts work on Hamburg vehicle terminal

BLG Logistics has laid the foundation stone for a new finished vehicle terminal at the port of Hamburg in Germany.

VDA calls for better road freight contingencies as drought hits river levels

The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) has been calling for better road freight contingencies as this summer’s drought conditions shrink river levels on the Rhine, an important inland waterway for German cargo movements.

Daimler Truck Global Parts Center in Halberstadt fully operational

Opened in 2025, the Daimler Truck Global Parts Center in Halberstadt, Germany, is now fully operational, distributing spare parts to dealers around the world.

James McLoughlin

Forced labour, circularity and supply chain transparency all priorities to enable a more sustainable automotive industry in Europe

The scope of sustainability in Europe's automotive sector has evolved beyond decarbonisation to include forced labour, circular economy and supply chain transparency.

James McLoughlin

Automated vehicle movement pilot 'promising', says Volkswagen's Peter Hörndlein

VW Group's Peter Hörndlein discusses its autonomous vehicle pilot at the Port of Emden, standardisation and demand forecasting for finished vehicle logistics.

Automotive Logistics

MG opens new European engineering centre, announces SolidCore batteries for European EVs

As part of its 'in Europe, for Europe' strategy, SAIC-owned MG has announced the opening of a new European engineering centre in Frankfurt, Germany, alongside the news that it plans to introduce semi-solid-state battery technology in its EVs before the end of the year.

James McLoughlin

BMW Group partners with PreZero to advance circular economy principles

BMW Group will work with circular economy company PreZero to enhance the circularity of its business model for the recycling of end-of-life vehicles.

James McLoughlin

DIRKS Group takes over VW Group packaging centre in Wilhelmshaven

Industrial and logistics service provider DIRKS Group has taken over the operation of Volkswagen Group’s CKD packaging centre in Wilhelmshaven, Germany.

James McLoughlin

Audi continues deployment of AI in production and logistics

Audi is scaling up AI deployment in production and logistics to improve factory and supply chain processes in line with its digitalisation roadmap and 360factory strategy.

James McLoughlin

PowerCo making battery cells at Salzgitter for Cell-to-Pack assembly at Martorell

VW's PowerCo division has begun battery cell production at its Salzgitter gigafactory in Germany, supplying cells to a new assembly facility at the SEAT Martorell plant in Spain.

Toyota uses VDL Groep hydrogen fuel cell trucks for Europe parts distribution

The OEM is using the trucks for distribution between its European parts centre in Belgium and locations in France, Germany and the Netherlands.

Plus Automation and Churchill IX merge to form PlusAI, with AI-led virtual drivers for autonomous trucking

An AI-based autonomous trucking software has seen success in trials completed with DSV and IVECO. PlusAI, the company behind the software, eyes partnerships with OEMs such as Traton Group and Hyundai as integral to scaling adoption.

VW Group Logistics launches Venice port terminal to optimise exports, reduce emissions and improve resilience across vehicle logistics

Volkswagen Group Logistics will expand its port network for finished vehicles of the Volkswagen Group with a terminal at Venice port in Italy, which will reduce lead times for many plants, increase rail transport, and shorten shipping times with Asia.

Panattoni completes work on Mercedes-Benz’s International Consolidation Centre

[Updated May 27] Mercedes-Benz is ready to open its International Consolidation Centre in Germany, which will bundle and preassemble parts for distribution to its global production locations.

BLG Logistics and Cosco Shipping Car Carriers to work together on China vehicle and equipment imports to Europe

An agreement between BLG Logistics and Cosco Shipping Car Carriers will make the German port of Bremerhaven a hub for Chinese vehicle and equipment imports to Europe.

Dieter Braun on how Audi is turning supply chain motion into progress

In the first part of a special interview series, read how Audi is confronting challenges in the automotive market with an emphasis on a holistic supply chain function that makes a positive contribution to the carmaker’s production and products. Head of supply chain Dieter Braun reveals how logistics can add value across the order-to-delivery process.

VW Group moves more than 1.2m vehicles through German port of Emden in 2024; almost 5% down on previous year

Volkswagen Group imported and exported 1.2m vehicles through Emden port in 2024, including 419,000 battery electric vehicles and hybrids, and is bringing in a new dock and yard management system.

Kawa Shipping makes first call at JadeWeserPort on China-Europe Express container service

Zhejiang Seaport Logistics has received its first express container ship call at JadeWeserPort in Germany with the arrival of the Kawa Ningbo.

Volkswagen Group appoints Holger Bätz as its head of supply chain development for the After Sales division

Holger Bätz has moved from OTLG to become VW Group’s head of supply chain development for the After Sales division.

DIN and DKE publish guidance for firms to meet mandatory EU Battery Passport rules

The new guidance – Requirements for Data Attributes of the Battery Passport – is designed to help companies meet the mandatory requirements for the EU’s digital battery passport.

Volkswagen to cut production in Germany and reduce staff across factories, with Golf production moved to Mexico

Following some intense negotiations through December, Volkswagen reached an agreement with its Works Council and the IG Metall union just before the Christmas break that will see it cut 35,000 jobs by 2030 and reduce production capacity by 734,000 units

Volkswagen benefits from green logistics services provided by Duvenbeck and MAN Truck and Bus

Duvenbeck’s use of MAN eTGX trucks will contribute to VW Group’s goTOzero impact logistics programme which aims to reduce CO2 emissions on road transport

Mercedes-Benz Trucks delivers first eActros 600 units to transport customers and announces upgrades to Wörth plant charging infrastructure

Mercedes-Benz Trucks will provide eActros 600 trucks to its own logistics providers from Q2 next year and is supporting emission-free inbound logistics with upgraded charging infrastructure at the Wörth plant in Germany

BMW will use hydrogen-powered tugger trains and forklift trucks for in-plant logistics at Regensburg from 2026

As part of its sustainability efforts, BMW will transition its in-plant logistics at Regensburg to hydrogen fuel cell technology, powering its tugger trains and forklift trucks. This move, under the iFactory initiative, aims to streamline operations and support the company’s carbon-neutral goals by reducing reliance on electric battery systems.

Daimler Truck is making the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 at Wörth assembly plant in Germany with inbound parts from Gaggenau, Kassel and Mannheim

Daimler Truck is using flexible assembly, inbound electric trucks and clean manufacturing to make the long-haul Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 at its Wörth plant in Germany.

Low electric vehicle demand in Europe forces Ford to cut working hours at Cologne EV plant

Ford of Europe is cutting working hours at its carbon-neutral electric vehicle plant in Cologne because lower-than-expected demand.

BMW using cloud-based guidance system for complex in-plant logistics at Regensburg assembly plant

BMW is using a cloud-based traffic control system to guide the 140 smart transport robots (STRs) and 50 tugger trains it uses to deliver parts to the assembly line at its Regensburg assembly plant in Germany. The carmaker said the BMW Automated Transport Services (ATS) system is ensuring optimal route guidance and on-time provisioning of parts to the assembly line according to delivery priority.

Mercedes-Benz opens lithium battery recycling facility in Germany to close the loop on material supply

Mercedes-Benz has opened a battery recycling centre in Kuppenheim, Germany with technology partner Primobius, a joint venture between German plant and mechanical engineering company SMS group, and Australian process technology developer Neometals.

Dräxlmaier to use first MAN electric truck for Porsche battery deliveries

MAN Truck & Bus has delivered its first fully electric 40-tonne truck for use by tier one supplier Dräxlmaier to deliver batteries to the Porsche plant in Leipzig, Germany which makes the Macan Electric model.

BMW using etrucks for inbound battery deliveries to Leipzig plant

BMW has started using two fully electric trucks to move battery cells and modules to its high-voltage battery production halls at the Leipzig plant in Germany from its nearby warehouse in BMW Allee. Rudolph Logistik Gruppe is providing the inbound transport service.

Shopping and shipping with Volkswagen in Emden

Volkswagen’s Mirko Bührmann appears to have a clear and simple order. The logistics planner has only written down three things on his shopping list: Nutella, two jars, Mett (raw pork), five portions, and hard cheese, also five portions. However, the ’supermarket’ Bührmann is shopping in is in fact his professional home – VW’s assembly plant in Emden, northwest Germany. This is where he coordinates orders for small parts.

Mosolf starts using electric transporters in Germany

Germany’s Mosolf Group has launched an emission-free finished vehicle logistics service in Baden-Württemberg.

Alex Krichel to take over Automobile and Contract divisions at BLG

Alex Krichel will take over from Matthias Magnor as chief operating officer (COO) for BLG Logistics’ Automobile and Contract divisions from January 1 next year. Magnor is moving to the role of CEO of the BLG Group, taking over from Frank Dreeke.

BLG expands its logistics services in Turkey

BLG Group has set up an independent company in Turkey called BLG Uluslararasi Tasimacilik (BLG International Transport) to provide finished vehicle logistics services and appointed Cem Akgül as managing director, based in Istanbul.

Valmet Automotive spins off battery business

Valmet Automotive is making its Electric Vehicle Systems business an independent company with its own leadership. Valmet Automotive said that for the time being it remains the sole owner and shareholder of the new company.

Porsche forecast dented by aluminium supply shortage

Porsche’s supply chain has been hit by a shortage of aluminium alloys as the result of flooding at an unnamed European supplier. Heavy rains in France, Switzerland and Italy at the very end of June caused flooding and fatal landslides as well as disrupting manufacturing. Porsche said the supplier had notified customers of the occurrence of a force majeure event.

Solar power for Daimler Truck’s Halberstadt global PDC

Daimler Truck is fitting photovoltaic modules to the roof of the new global parts distribution centre (PDC) it is building in Halberstadt, Germany. Having already covered 30,000 sq.m (12%), the solar panel system will eventually cover 90% of a total roof area around 250,000 sq.m. It is expected to generate more than 20m kWh of electricity per year. Surplus energy will be fed into the grid.

BMW starts using autonomous platform truck for press tools and blanks

BMW has introduced an electric autonomous platform truck at its Regensburg production plant in Germany to move press tools and steel blanks. The truck can carry a payload of up to 55 tonnes. It is provided by equipment supplier Pefra and driven by autonomous technology provided by Aitonomi.

BMW’s Michael Nikolaides on a localised, digital supply chain

Dr Michael Nikolaides, senior vice-president, Production Network, Supply Chain Management and Logistics at BMW Group, talks to Automotive Logistics about making cross-functional decisions to make the OEM’s supply chain more localised, digitalised and efficient

VW responds to EU imposing up to 38% tariffs on Chinese EVs

Volkswagen Group has responded to the European Commission’s (EU) decision to impose additional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese EVs, following preliminary results of its anti-subsidy investigation which found that prices are being distorted by Chinese state support.

ACC halts construction of two European gigafactories

Automotive Cells Company (ACC), with its shareholders Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz and TotalEnergies’ subsidiary Saft, has halted the construction of two of its three planned European gigafactories.

Volkswagen relies on localisation in Europe for EV project

Volkswagen Group has decided to make all-electric entry-level mobility more widespread, with affordable electric vehicles (EVs) made in Europe for sale in Europe, and will do so by relying on localisation on the continent.

Hoerndlein to lead vehicle logistics for Volkswagen Group Logistics; Bronder moves to SAIC JV

Volkswagen Group Logistics has appointed Peter Hoerndlein as its new head of vehicle logistics, taking over from Oliver Bronder, who is moving to head up logistics at VW’s largest Chinese joint venture, SAIC-VW in Shanghai.

Lufthansa Cargo starts Frankfurt to Monterrey air-freight service

From June 3 Lufthansa Cargo is offering a connection from its home hub in Frankfurt, Germany to Monterrey in Mexico, via Mexico City, the first European cargo airline to connect Europe with Monterrey.

Danny Auerswald returns to VW Saxony to oversee technology and logistics

From the beginning of July this year Danny Auerswald will take over as managing director of VW Saxony, a role that includes leadership of technology and logistics at the Zwickau, Chemnitz and Dresden plants. He will be effectively managing a production network that is currently 100% electric vehicle. Auerswald replaces Robert Janssen, who moves to lead production and product management at SAIC Volkswagen in Shanghai as executive vice-president.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks continues to electrify inbound deliveries

German logistics provider Große-Vehne Speditions is deploying two battery-electric eActros 300 semitrailer tractor units for transporting car engines between Mercedes-Benz Truck’s Bad Cannstatt engine plant and its truck assembly plant in Sindelfingen, both on the periphery of Stuttgart.

BLG Logistics’ Automobile division boosts sales in FY2023

BLG Logistics moved 1.5m vehicles through its Bremerhaven automotive terminal in financial year 2023, down 11.7% on the volumes handled in FY2022, mainly because of economic conditions, according to logistics provider.

Audi switches parts cargo to intermodal service with Helrom and Duvenbeck

Audi is using an intermodal a trailer-to-train service provided by Helrom for the movement of materials between its Ingostadt and Neckarsulm plants in Germany and its Györ plant in Hungary.

Highlights from ALSC Europe day one

At our recent Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Europe 2024 conference in Bonn, Germany we heard from some of the biggest OEMs, logistics partners and tier suppliers in the continent, who discussed how to deliver a competitive edge through logistics. While the event may be over, Automotive Logistics will continue to bring some of the most important and insightful highlights from the conference.

Red Sofa Interview: BMW’s Dr Michael Nikolaides on cross-functional decisions in the supply chain

BMW has learned how to better steer its network through volatile times through combining business divisions to make cross-functional programming decisions in its supply chain.

Red Sofa Interview: Why Toyota Motor Europe isn’t looking for flexibility

Jean Christophe Deville, vice-president of supply chain at Toyota Motor Europe said he isn’t looking for flexibility in his logistics partners, and is instead looking for forecasting capabilities.

Red Sofa Interview: Jean-Marc Carlicchi on Renault’s next step in digitalisation

At ALSC Europe in Bonn, Germany last week, Jean-Marc Carlicchi, VP of Supply Chain Engineering at Renault Group took to the Red Sofa with Christopher Ludwig, Chief of Content, to talk about the OEM’s digitalisation journey.

Red Sofa Interview: JLR’s Levent Yuksel on scaling green logistics solutions

At Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Europe 2024 in Bonn, Germany, Levent Yuksel, freight operations director at JLR sits down on the Red Sofa to discuss how we can scale green logistics solutions by working in partnership.

Red Sofa Interview: Empowering excellence for women in the supply chain

Watch Sabine Isenbort, manager of inbound logistics operations at Ford Europe, Isa Kalinska, lead of logistics and distribution at JLR, and Sonia Santors, vice-president of worldwide manufacturing at Bosch on the Red Sofa at ALSC Europe 2024 in Bonn.

Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe: Recap blog

Follow our recap blog below for the key highlights and knowledge shared at ALSC Europe 2024. Even though the event is over, the insight doesn’t stop, and we will continue to update this blog with the most valuable insights, data and quotes from automotive experts discussing how to deliver a competitive edge, through reducing complexity, increasing flexibility and maximising capacity. Jump to key highlights:Dr Michael Nikolaides, BMW on market volatilityMartina Graser, Ford Europe on securing ocean-based capacityIza Kalinska, JLR, Sabine Isenbort, Ford Europe and Sonia Santos, Bosch on the Red SofaLevent Yuksel, JLR Red Sofa Interview and article on ‘win win’ opportunities for collaborationJean-Marc Carlicchi, Renault Group on the ‘new never-normal’Jean Christophe Deville, Toyota Motor Europe Red Sofa Interview and article on advantageous partnershipsOliver Bronder, VW Group Logistics keynote panel

VW cancels ID.3 assembly plans at Wolfsburg plant

Volkswagen has cancelled plans to build the ID.3 EV at its Wolfsburg plant in Germany, which was planned for summer 2024. The carmaker said it will continue to bundle ID.3 volume assembly at its Zwickau plant in the east of Germany “to effectively utilise the already fully installed location”, according to a spokesperson for the carmaker.

Revamping supply chains: Carmakers’ shift to local sourcing for EV efficiency

Carmakers in Europe, including Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis, are reshaping their logistics by localising supply chains. This strategic move aims to enhance efficiency, cut costs, and reduce emissions, marking a significant step towards sustainable electric vehicle production.

Tesla’s Berlin factory set to restart after arson attack

Tesla’s gigafactory in Grünheide, in Berlin, Germany is set to regain power this week, having been shut down following a suspected arson attack.

ACC raises €4.4 billion for three gigafactories in Europe

Automotive Cells Company (ACC), with its shareholders Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz and Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, has raised €4.4 billion ($4.7 billion) in debt funding for the construction of three gigafactories in Europe.

DRS Group forms JV to move into US logistics market

DRS Group, a German hail damage repair service provider, has formed a joint venture (JV) with American paintless dent repair firm Dent Master to push into the US market.

MAN Truck and Bus strengthens spare parts logistics in Salzgitter

MAN Truck & Bus is expanding its global service parts logistics centre in Salzgitter, Germany by 52,650 sq.m, taking the total footprint to 230,000 sq.m and bringing capacity for an additional 40,000 parts.

AD Ports’ Noatum enters European FVL market through Sesé acquisition

Following its acquisition of Spanish maritime logistics provider Noatum last year, Abu Dhabi-based logistics firm AD Ports, has acquired finished vehicle logistics (FVL) firm Sesé Auto Logistics, part of Grupo Logístico Sesé.

Hyundai Motor Germany appoints Ulrich Mechau as president and CEO

Hyundai Motor has appointed Ulrich Mechau, previously vice president of sales and service at Hyundai Motor Europe (HME), as president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Germany.

Latest rail strike in Germany threatens cargo shipments

The German locomotive drivers’ union GDL has called for a fourth wave of strike action this week against Deutsche Bahn (DB), the state-run rail and logistics provider. The latest action calls for the inclusion of rail freight drivers employed by DB Cargo, along with passenger services.

Bora Argac expands commercial role at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has appointed Bora Argac as its new chief commercial officer (CCO) for Germany. He succeeds Kai Hasenpusch, who has moved to become sales director for Roadfreight West Europe at the logistics provider.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks electrifies fleet for inbound deliveries to Wörth plant

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has delivered 12 battery-electric trucks to its logistics providers, the first of 20 eActros 300s for use in inbound logistics. The first 12 trucks will be used for just-in-time delivery of parts to the Wörth plant in Germany from the first quarter of 2024 and together they will make around 50 journeys a day.

BMW battery cell centre integrates engineering, purchasing and production to scale supply chain

BMW’s new battery cell pilot plant close to Munich will help the carmaker standardise and increase production and supply chain process across battery manufacturing and supply

BMW works with Trailer Dynamics to cut road emissons

BMW Group Logistik has been testing an electric semi-trailer for inbound parts deliveries to its factories in Germany using both a diesel tractor and one driven by battery electric power.

Rinse and repeat to make your supply chain robust

Carmakers are confronted with a wide array of potential disruptions when trying to get service parts to the right place in a timely fashion.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks lays foundation stone for global service parts centre in Germany

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has officially started construction on its global parts centre in Halberstadt, Germany, the biggest logistics project in the company’s history. Operations are due to begin at the centre in 2026 across 260,000 sq.m of logistics space.

Chipmakers enter JV to build €10 bn semiconductor plant in Germany

Semiconductor manufacturers Robert Bosch, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Infineon Technologies and NXP have established a plan for a joint venture to invest in a new semiconductor plant in Dresden, Germany.

BMW using Medway rail service for vehicle movements

BMW is moving more finished vehicles by rail following the set-up of a new service between its assembly plant in Regensburg, Germany and the Belgian port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Mercedes-Benz breaks ground on battery recycling plant in Kuppenheim

Mercedes-Benz Group has broken ground on a 7,000 sq.m lithium battery recycling plant in Germany, with annual capacity to handle 2,500 tonnes of battery material from hybrid and pure battery electric vehicles (BEVs). That material will be fed back into to produce more than 50,000 battery modules for new Mercedes-Benz models, said the carmaker.

Valmet Automotive begins localised battery supply in Germany

Valmet Automotive has begun assembly of battery systems at a new 11,500 sq.m facility in Kirchardt, near Heilbronn in Germany.

Kion expands operations in Germany with PDC and plant expansion

Kion Group is building a 22,000 sq.m service parts distribution centre (PDC) near Aschaffenburg in Germany to supply its subsidiary brands Dematic and Linde Material Handling, which provide intralogistics and warehouse automation, technology and trucks.

BMW’s lean, green and digital difference

Mastering successive supply chain crises has reframed the role of logistics at BMW. Dr Michael Nikolaides, senior vice-president of production network and supply chain management, explains how his team is influencing plant and market decisions, thanks in part to improved visibility

Axel Bantel moves to BLG Automobile Logistics

Axel Bantel has moved from his role as vice-president of Wallenius Wilhelmsen Ocean and Solutions to a new role as managing director of sales in the Automobile division of German logistics provider BLG.

Merc Trucks to open global service parts centre in Halberstadt

Mercedes-Benz Trucks is building a service parts centre in Halberstadt, Germany this year that it said will help make its spare part logistics more flexible, efficient and sustainable. It is the biggest logistics project in the company’s history.

Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian pause production plans in Europe

Rivian has pulled out of the agreement it signed with Mercedes-Benz Vans in September this year to make electric commercial vehicles (eCVs) in Europe. The US EV maker said it would instead be focusing on producing its R1T and R1S vehicles for customers.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks partners with XPO to open UK distribution hub

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has opened a new, dedicated service hub that will store spare parts and act as the logistics centre for all of its UK-based trucks, and also those of Daimler sister brand Fuso. At 13,000 sq.m it adds a fifth more space capacity than current facilities and is based in Willen, just outside Milton Keynes.

Mercedes to use Microsoft data platform to streamline supply chain

Mercedes-Benz has partnered with Microsoft to deepen their collaboration on production systems, creating a data platform that gives transparency across every passenger car factory and allows inventory management and supply chain oversight to maximise production.

Andrea Eck to leave BLG’s Automobile division

Andrea Eck will leave her role as head of the Automobile division at BLG Logistics at the end of this year. A permanent successor has yet to be announced but for the interim period BLG’s CEO, Frank Dreeke, will oversee management of the division.

Porsche retrofitting headlights after supply shortage

Porsche has resolved a supply chain bottleneck that forced it to delay deliveries this month of Macan and Panamera models made at its Leipzig plant in Germany.

Low river levels hamper vehicle shipments in Europe

Soaring temperatures and a prolonged dry spell in Europe this summer means river levels are at an all-time low, most notably in the Rhine, which was closed to freight traffic this week.

BMW assembly disrupted by train line damage

Production at BMW’s Dingolfing assembly plant in Germany has been disrupted by a problem affecting the rail connection the carmaker uses to move finished vehicles out of the factory.

Bosch to invest €3 billion to increase semiconductor supply

The EU and German government will part-fund the expansion of the semiconductor manufacturing which the bloc has identified as an area of strategic importance.

China’s Nio to expand battery swap network, including overseas

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Nio has said it will expand its battery swap network to approximately 4,000 stations over the next few years. The company currently has 1,021 stations in China, including on eight of the main national highways.

Battery problems halt assembly of Volkswagen’s ID.Buzz in Hanover

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has halted production of its ID.Buzz electric van in Hanover for one week because of quality problems with the lithium battery.

BMW introduces cloud-based autonomous logistics at Landshut

BMW Group is now using a data cloud to manage autonomous logistics at its component plant in Landshut, Germany, following trials with the Technical University of Munich (TUM).

BLG upbeat on performance despite automotive losses

In its latest annual financial report, BLG Logistics reports earnings in its Automobile division that are significantly below target because of continued problems in the automotive industry. However, earnings were positive and the company is investing to digitalise operations and make them more sustainable.

Auto1 Group opens German used-car facility supported by Inform

Car trading platform Auto1 Group has opened a vehicle-distribution centre in Hemau, Germany that is being supported by a yard management system (YMS) provided by logistics software specialist Inform.

Mercedes-Benz opens sustainable battery logistics centre in Germany

Mercedes-Benz has opened a battery logistics facility near its plant in Bremen, Germany, that it will run with its logistics provider DB Cargo.

Matthias Braun to head battery cell logistics at VW Group

Following last month’s decision by Volkswagen Group to create its own European company for the management of its lithium battery supply, Matthias Braun (pictured) has indicated he is moving from his role as head of digitalisation and concept development at VW Group Logistics to a new role focusing on battery cell logistics.

BMW using autonomous parking system from Seoul Robotics

BMW is using a system supplied by Seoul Robotics to autonomously move finished vehicles from the factory floor to a parking area from where they are picked up for distribution to the dealer network.

Hyundai Glovis signs venture with BLG Logistics at Bremerhaven

As of January 2022 Hyundai Glovis will be using the port of Bremerhaven in Germany as its hub for vehicles in transit from Asia to Europe in a new deal signed with BLG Logistics.

Walker replaces Kössler as head of Audi’s production and logistics

Peter Kössler will hand over responsibility for Audi’s production and logistics to Gerd Walker (pictured) at the beginning of February next year. Walker is currently head of production at the Wolfsburg plant of parent company Volkswagen Group in Germany.

Hamburg port now using carpodX system for vehicle inspection

The port of Hamburg is now using an automated vehicle inspection system called carpodX, developed by the CAR Consulting Group, to more efficiently process finished vehicles before they are shipped.

BMW aims at zero-emission transport logistics at Munich plant

To coincide with the start of production of the fully electric BMW i4 at its Munich assembly plant in Germany, the carmaker has also launched a project to completely cut local emissions from the transport logistics used to feed parts into the plant.

Daimler installs automated parts warehouse in Düsseldorf

Daimler has installed an automated small parts warehouse at its Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van assembly plant in Düsseldorf, Germany.

Unikie and Valmet trial autonomous parking system at Finnish plant

Finnish technology company Unikie has teamed up with tier one supplier and contract manufacturer Valmet Automotive to deploy an automated parking system at Valmet’s assembly plant in Uusikaupunki.

CATL partners with BASF for EV battery material recycling

China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) has announced a strategic partnership with German chemicals firm BASF in battery materials solutions that will support recycling of batteries and CATL’s plans for the production of battery cells in Europe.

Audi recycling packaging to make 3D assembly tools at Neckarsulm

Audi is recycling the plastic packaging used to deliver sensitive components to its Neckarsulm assembly plant in Germany and using it to produce 3D-printed tools for vehicle production.

Carbon-neutral supply chain a priority for Volkswagen

Volkswagen is making a concerted effort to make the way it moves its vehicles as sustainable as the electric vehicles it is moving. A good example is seen in the export of ID.4 from Germany to the US, as Marcus Williams finds out

BMW deploys more hydrogen fuel cell trucks for logistics in Leipzig

BMW is expanding the fleet of hydrogen fuel cell trucks it uses to manage parts movements at its Leipzig plant in Germany.

AL FVL Summer 2021 Digital Edition – Gearing up the supply chain for sustainable growth

The summer digital edition of Automotive Logistics and Finished Vehicle Logistics magazine is out now, featuring an overview of the top performing vehicle handling ports in North America, a special focus on the terminal operator Amports and an in-depth look at developments at the Mexican port of Mazatlán.

VW to deploy more LNG vessels for North Atlantic car shipments

Volkswagen has ordered four car-carrying vessels with dual-fuel engines that can be run on liquified natural gas (LNG), the latest effort by the carmaker to make its shipment of finished vehicles between Germany and North America more sustainable. The LNG vessels will help cut carbon emissions on the route by 25%, it said.

BMW chooses ICL Systems for business and IT support

BMW has signed an agreement with ICL Systems for IT and business support in Europe.

Lamborghini switches to rail for Urus body deliveries

Lamborghini is now exclusively using rail to move Urus SUV chassis from VW Group’s Zwickau plant in Germany to its Italian factory headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Modena.

BLG expands Kelheim capacity for Kia

BLG Logistics has commissioned the building of a third multistorey car park at its inland auto terminal in Kelheim, Germany for Kia Motors Deutschland.

VW cuts transport emissions by expanding Zwickau press shop

Volkswagen’s electric vehicle (EV) assembly plant in Zwickau, Germany, has taken another step into sustainable manufacturing by investing €74m ($95m) to expand its press shop.

A game of two halves at Europe’s vehicle ports

Volatility at Europe’s leading finished vehicle handling ports was made worse in 2020 by the impact of restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic in the first half of the year and then by resurgent demand in the second half. Marcus Williams reports

AL FVL Spring 2021 Digital Edition – Coping strategies for a global crisis

The spring digital edition of Automotive Logistics and Finished Vehicle Logistics is out now, featuring comprehensive overviews of the main vehicle ports in continental Europe and the UK, as well as the maritime transport sector. Plus, we look at the latest packaging initiative supporting VW’s lithium-ion battery deliveries to VW Zwickau, Vijay Ratnaparkhe’s IT revolution at Bosch and talk to carmakers about supply chain lessons ten years on from the Fukushima earthquake disaster

Mini gets more sustainable on inbound moves with Imperial

BMW is benefitting from more sustainable inbound logistics at its Mini plant in Oxford, UK thanks to the deployment by its transport provider, Imperial Logistics, of a new fleet of 18 trucks powered by liquified natural gas (LNG). The trucks are being used to transport parts, including engines, from suppliers on 15 routes across the UK into the Oxford plant.

BMW using LNG-powered trucks for engine deliveries to Regensburg

BMW is using trucks fuelled by liquified natural gas (LNG) to deliver engines to its assembly plant in Regensburg, Germany, cutting carbon and nitrogen emissions. The use of the trucks is part of the vehicle maker’s sustainability target of making all of the cargo transport for its operations carbon neutral by 2050.

German border controls threaten inbound parts supply

Germany’s decision to suddenly impose travel restrictions across borders with Austria and the Czech Republic, and to those travelling from Slovakia, has drawn criticism from across the automotive industry as freight queues threaten to delay parts deliveries.

VW ends Golf production in Mexico in favour of Taos SUV

Volkswagen has ended production of the Golf hatchback at its Puebla plant in Mexico. The performance versions of the new Golf will be imported from Germany while American production shifts to SUVs

Audi using augmented reality for logistics and production planning

Audi is using 3D holograms to better plan production logistics processes at its vehicle assembly plants. The use of augmented reality technology removes the need to produce prototypes of equipment or containers, making planning more cost and time efficient, according to the carmaker.

VW boosts green credentials of lithium battery supply to Zwickau

Volkswagen is using a combination of rail and automated unloading to move batteries to its plant in Zwickau, Germany, its first plant dedicated to electric vehicle production, which is currently making the ID.3 and ID.4

BMW launches Idealworks subsidiary to supply logistics automation technology

BMW Group has founded a subsidiary called Idealworks to supply autonomous robots to the logistics sector, including companies outside of the automotive industry. The subsidiary, which is based in Munich, Germany, and currently has a team of 30, takes its name from the acronym for industry-driven engineering for autonomous logistics (Ideal).

Audi switches to LNG trucks for inbound delivery at Neckarsulm

Audi has started using trucks powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) to deliver parts to its Neckarsulm factory in Germany. The carmaker said the two trucks would replace conventional diesel vehicles and save up to 20% of CO2 and around 85% of nitrogen oxides.

BMW trials vehicle exports by rail from Germany to China

BMW has started to pilot rail shipments of cars between its Dingolfing plant in Germany to Chengdu in China, together with Changjiu Logistics.

Mercedes-Benz to increase stake in Aston Martin

Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz division is increasing its stake in Aston Martin Lagonda from 5% to 20% in what the carmakers are calling a ‘strategic technology agreement’.

VW outsources more large sub-assemblies for EVs

In switching its Zwickau and Dresden plants in Germany to the production of exclusively electric vehicles based on the MEB platform, Volkswagen is outsourcing a higher share of the assembly of large parts of the vehicle to nearby suppliers than it previously had with ICE-based platforms.

Managing a dynamic global service parts network from Germersheim

Mercedes-Benz has added a state-of-the-art service parts warehouse to its global spare parts logistics centre in Germersheim, Germany. Klaus Ziemsky, director of global parts operations and site manager at the centre, tells Marcus Williams about the latest automation technology being used there

RNM Alliance extends contract with Groupe Cat in France and Belgium

Mercedes-Benz celebrates 30 years at Germersheim with high-tech warehouse

Audi using drone to locate vehicles at Neckarsulm

Watch: Livestream Hour Season Finale Part 1: Global logistics lessons with the Volkswagen Group

As part of our finale for this season’s Livestream Hour, watch this exclusive interview with our special guest Matthias Braun, who leads digitalisation and concept development for group logistics at the Volkswagen Group, on how the carmaker has managed its supply chain through all phases of the coronavirus crisis so far, and lessons for the future

Vollmer takes on production and logistics role at VW Passenger Cars

No V-shaped recovery for automotive industry

BMW now working with NVIDIA to advance AI in logistics

Mosolf outlines protection programme for logistics sites

Germany allows car dealerships to reopen as assembly restarts

VW Group continues global aftermarket supply from Germany

BMW to expand blockchain applications for parts purchasing

Opel opens the doors to Japan

BMW Dingolfing developing industry 4.0 technology for logistics

BMW increases automation at Mexico plant

Audi exploring paperless possibilities with smart logistics

Toll Group IT services hit by ransomware attack

Automar takes control of AutoTerminal Gioia Tauro

Daimler Buses to start 3D printing of spare parts

Exoskeletons to support lineside employees at Audi

BMW signs five-year lithium deal with Ganfeng

Autodoc expands European logistics base to meet demand

German carmakers fined for anti-trust activity on steel purchases

VW lineside logistics reduces Golf production time by an hour

Porsche partners with Sap to innovate digital processes

Bosch’s roadmap to a zero-carbon operation

Austria’s cargo-partner on track in China

Harmonising the supply chain

As supply chains grow more complex, automotive companies need a reliable way to keep track of parts movements and alert them to any delays. Andrew Williams investigates a ‘visibility platform’ from German start-up Synfioo

BMW charges up battery output in Thailand with Dräxlmaier

VW hosts hackathon to develop digital supply chain

Cuxport on a roll with 2m BMW exports

Alfonso Sancha takes lead purchasing role at Seat

DB Schenker explores use of exoskeletons for logistics

Mercedes-Benz truck trial reveals positive results

Volvo on track from China to Belgium with ARS Altmann and ICL

BMW Brilliance applies 5G network across China

VW opens IT centre in Dresden

Mosolf expands services in Germany

Trial truck deployed in Mercedes-Benz supply chain

Steering the future using AI

German start-up Kopernikus has developed self-driving technology that can be used to move vehicles inside production facilities and workshops, and potentially even at ports

ARS Altmann and ICL on track to China

Mosolf to ship cars by rail between Poland and China

Mercedes-Benz dealer improves performance in Chile

Vinturas backing blockchain for supply chain visibility

Ford trials self-driving factory robot

Delivering a smarter factory

Ceva block train on track from China to Europe

Flight club: Why more logistics operations are signing up to drone technology

Impressive advancements have been made in drone technology over the last few years and many believe that drones will play a key role in the logistics of the future, for internal business functions as well as deliveries to consumers. In fact, NASA estimates that there will be 7m drones in US skies alone by 2020.

Nickel supply sparks concern for BYD

The Chinese carmaker points to shortages in key materials for building lithium-ion batteries

Floridia to head Gefco’s Innovation Factory

Ford Europe packaging: Heading to the pool

Ford’s Kuly Malka has overseen a transformation in the carmaker’s European packaging and container management

Volkswagen seals lithium deal

Volkswagen has signed a letter of intent with Ganfeng Lithium of Jiangxi province, China, to provide lithium to the OEM and its suppliers for the next ten years.

Porsche on track for southern China

Continental rolls out expansion in Germany

VW turns to Amazon to streamline its supply chain

BMW looks to the cloud to boost productivity

VW reshuffles top managers in components operations

Mercedes-Benz test drives port in Canada

DHL steps on the gas to cut emissions

Ford customises European shake up