Volkswagen Slovakia celebrates the 25th anniversary of its plant in Martin, embarks on e-mobility journey

The Volkswagen Slovakia plant in Martin opened on 29 May 2000. It has gradually expanded and today is an integral part of the automotive industry in Slovakia and the Volkswagen Group's production network, for which it produces components for more than 60 models from 6 Group brands. These include synchroniser rings, shafts, differentials and other components for transmissions and chassis. Since the plant was established, more than 600 million components have been manufactured in Martin, and investment in the region has exceeded 320 million euros.

Among the latest additions to the product portfolio is the PPE differential for electric drives, which is shipped from Martin to Audi Hungaria in Győr, where it is integrated into drives intended for the all-electric Porsche Macan and Audi Q6 models. More than 46 million euros was invested in PPE differential production in previous years. The investment also brought new technologies to the Turiec region, which required employee training. These include laser welding of steel to cast iron without a shielding atmosphere or filler material, which is unique in the automotive industry. The second new technology is vacuum hardening, in which the Martin plant stands out within the Group, as it uses a slightly different technology compared with other plants.

The Volkswagen Slovakia plant in Martin has been a stable and reliable employer for a quarter of a century, offering employees attractive remuneration and a comprehensive employee welfare programme. This includes 13th and 14th salary payments, a bonus linked to financial performance and a wide range of other financial and non-financial benefits. Approximately one-third of employees have remained loyal to the Martin plant for the full 25 years, while the average length of service is more than 18 years. The plant in Martin is also a long-standing partner in vocational education in the region and is part of the dual education system.