Ford has opened the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center, a high-tech production facility in Germany that will build Ford’s new generation of electric passenger vehicles for European customers.
Ford has transformed its plant in Niehl, Cologne – first founded in 1930 – as part of a $US2 billion ($2.99 billion) investment and the 125-hectare site is equipped with a brand-new production line, battery assembly and state-of-the-art tooling and automation, enabling an annual production capacity of 250,000+ EVs. Ford recently unveiled its fourth EV globally, the electric Explorer, which will be the first electric vehicle to be produced in Cologne, followed by a second electric vehicle, a sports crossover.
“Opening the Cologne EV Center is the start of a new generation of clean manufacturing and electric vehicles in Europe,” said Bill Ford, Executive Chair. “This facility will now be one of the most efficient and environmentally responsible plants in the entire industry. I am thrilled to continue working toward a zero emissions future for our children and grandchildren.”
At the core of the Cologne EV Centre are digital advancements that connect machines, vehicles and workers, with the company saying that implementing self-learning machines, autonomous transport systems and big data management in real time are integral to improve the efficiency of the production processes. New cognitive and collaborative robots, and augmented reality solutions are aimed at supporting employees and increasing efficiencies and data exchange with other plants to share experiences in real time.
To achieve carbon neutrality, Ford says all electricity and natural gas required to operate the facility is carbon neutral, based on being 100 per cent certified renewable electricity and biomethane.
The heat required to warm the facility and processes is carbon neutral, as a local energy provider will offset the corresponding emissions from the assembly plant on behalf of Ford. The heat is generated by an external power plant and waste incineration plant and provided through a dedicated steam network to Ford. The local energy provider plans to reduce their operating emissions for this heat delivery by approximately 60 per cent in 2026 and then eliminate these emissions completely by 2035.
“The carbon neutral Cologne EV Centre is a leading automotive industry showcase for the switch from traditional auto manufacturing to electric vehicle production,” said Martin Sander, general manager of Ford Model e Europe. “The facilities and processes have been designed by our engineers to maximise efficiency and minimise environmental impact, helping Ford become carbon neutral in Europe and supporting our global decarbonisation plan.”
VIDEO: FORD OPENS NEW EV CENTRE
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (July 2023)
19 July 2023