SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 13, 2024 – Audi has embarked on the most extensive production launch in its history at the Neckarsulm plant with the commencement of the new Audi A5 family, showcasing its commitment to a greener and more efficient automotive manufacturing future. These models, the first to be built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) and featuring partially electrified drive systems and a new electronic architecture,represent a pivotal moment in Audi's journey towards sustainable production.
Neckarsulm: A Showcase of Advanced Manufacturing
The Neckarsulm plant leverages its extensive experience in combustion engine vehicle production and complex ramp-ups to deliver a future-ready production environment. "Our team in Neckarsulm is equipped with the expertise and the latest qualifications in automotive production technologies, ensuring the successful launch of the new Audi A5 family," said Fred Schulze, Plant Manager of Audi Neckarsulm. "We have built a production infrastructure that is not just efficient but also adaptable to the evolving demands of the automotive industry."
Sustainable Production: At the Heart of Audi's Vision
In line with its ambitious "360factory" production strategy, Audi aims to achieve net carbon-neutral production at all its sites by 2025. The modernized paint shop at Neckarsulm exemplifies this commitment, setting a new industry benchmark for efficiency and sustainability. Even before its full completion in 2025, the paint shop has already demonstrated significant energy savings, cutting energy consumption by up to 140 kWh per vehicle during the Audi A5 production launch.
Innovation Driving Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility
Audi's dedication to sustainability is evident in the numerous innovative processes and technologies integrated into its production facilities. The newly implemented cathodic dip painting process and transverse drying system not only improve efficiency but also facilitate the production of future electric and hybrid vehicles. The introduction of a dry paint separation process further reduces energy consumption and eliminates the use of fresh water and chemicals,underlining Audi's focus on resource conservation.
The Neckarsulm plant's closed water cycle, in collaboration with the local wastewater treatment plant, represents a major advancement in water conservation, resulting in a significant reduction in fresh water usage.
Automation: A Catalyst for Precision and Quality
The Neckarsulm facility has achieved a new level of automation with the fully automated installation of add-on parts in the body shop. This innovation ensures superior fitting accuracy and minimizes external influences on the production process. Audi's commitment to automation extends to its supply chain, where smart, automated material provision systems are being implemented across all locations.
In another groundbreaking move, Audi has introduced a "virtually smokeless fixing" process in car body construction,significantly reducing residue and improving production speed. State-of-the-art quality control measures, including inline measurements and augmented reality inspections, further elevate the quality standards of each Audi A5.
Leading the Way Towards a Sustainable Automotive Future
The launch of the new Audi A5 in Neckarsulm underscores Audi's dedication to pioneering sustainable and efficient production practices while maintaining its reputation for premium automotive manufacturing. The company's investments in modernization, optimization, and advanced technologies demonstrate its leadership in shaping a greener future for the automotive industry.
About Audi
Audi, a globally recognized German automotive manufacturer, is renowned for its luxury, innovation, and performance.The brand's unwavering commitment to sustainability and efficiency is reflected in both its production processes and the vehicles it creates.