Skoda starts Superb production in Bratislava

Skoda has moved Superb production from the Czech Republic to Slovakia. It sounds a bit like moving a VW production facility from Lower Saxony to Bavaria, but there is a strategic shift behind it: by relocating production to Slovakia, the capacities for the Octavia are increased at the Czech plant in Kvasiny. In return, additional units of battery-electric model series will roll off the production line at the Mladá Boleslav site.

The move is part of the "Beta+" project, which leverages synergies within the production network and increases efficiency. Skoda is not only responsible for the development of the Superb, but also for the new VW Passat, both of which are manufactured on the same production line. Andreas Dick, Skoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics, says:

"The introduction of a new model generation is always a special moment for the entire team. This is especially true for the new Superb, which was developed together with the Volkswagen Passat under the Beta+ project, led by Skoda. This project and the successful relocation of Superb production to Bratislava demonstrate the high competence and know-how at Skoda. With the next generation of our successful ICE flagship, we are achieving significant synergy effects for the Volkswagen Group. My heartfelt thanks go to all the colleagues who have worked on this project with great commitment."

Advantage Bratislava: There is a pressing plant on site, which saves long distances

The production of the Skoda Superb in Slovakia begins with the body parts. They are predominantly pressed locally in Bratislava and then brought to the new body shop. The vacant hall was fundamentally overhauled as part of the Beta+ project.

Furthermore, Skoda Auto installed over 500 state-of-the-art robots and control systems, as well as adhesive devices and brought suppliers on board in less than two years. The assembly hall was also extensively renovated: the production line, on which the new models were seamlessly integrated into the existing production lines for Volkswagen and Skoda vehicles, had not previously been used for the manufacture of plug-in hybrid vehicles.

The modernization of the assembly hall includes, among other things, the installation of automation and handling technologies, industrial camera systems, as well as further extensive innovations along the entire production line. Additionally, the area for the production of the floor assemblies has been expanded so that batteries for models with electrified powertrains can now also be assembled.