Ford has taken a significant step towards embracing electric mobility in Europe with the opening of the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center. This state-of-the-art production facility, located in Germany, will be responsible for manufacturing Ford’s new generation of electric passenger vehicles exclusively for the European market. With a hefty investment of $2 billion, Ford has transformed its historical plant in Niehl, Cologne, which was established as far back as 1930.
The sprawling 125-hectare site boasts cutting-edge infrastructure, including a brand-new production line, battery assembly facilities, and advanced automation and tooling systems. Such advancements enable the plant to achieve an impressive annual production capacity of over 250,000 electric vehicles. Ford’s latest addition to its electric vehicle lineup, the electric Explorer, will be the first model to roll off the assembly line at the Cologne facility. This will be followed by the production of a sports crossover, further solidifying Ford’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
Notably, the Cologne EV Center is Ford’s inaugural carbon-neutral assembly plant on a global scale. This milestone aligns with the company’s broader objective of attaining carbon neutrality across all its European facilities, logistics operations, and direct suppliers by 2035. By transforming its production processes and adopting eco-friendly measures, Ford aims to lead the way in environmentally responsible manufacturing.
In addition to its focus on sustainability, the Cologne EV Center incorporates innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency. The facility is equipped with advanced cognitive and collaborative robots, as well as augmented reality solutions. These cutting-edge tools facilitate improved efficiencies and real-time data exchange with other Ford plants, enabling the sharing of valuable experiences.
Bill Ford, the Executive Chair of Ford, expressed his enthusiasm for the Cologne EV Center, highlighting its role in ushering in a new era of clean manufacturing and electric vehicles in Europe. He emphasized the facility’s commitment to a zero-emissions future, demonstrating Ford’s dedication to creating a sustainable legacy for future generations.
The opening ceremony of the Electric Vehicle Center was attended by Germany’s Federal Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, who commended Ford’s investment as a fresh start and the largest in the history of the company’s Cologne plant. Scholz emphasized the positive implications for Cologne, the German auto industry, and the broader field of e-mobility, noting that it marked the beginning of a new era.
Martin Sander, the general manager of Ford Model e Europe, emphasized the significance of the Cologne EV Center, stating that it symbolizes a new chapter for Ford in Europe. He highlighted the company’s commitment to redefining auto manufacturing by integrating advanced technologies and building fully connected, software-defined vehicles that meet the growing demand for zero-emission mobility.
Ford’s operations in Europe employ around 34,000 individuals across its wholly-owned facilities and consolidated joint ventures. When accounting for unconsolidated businesses, the number of people employed by Ford in Europe reaches approximately 56,000. The establishment of the Cologne EV Center serves as a testament to Ford’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and its role as a leading player in the European automotive industry.
