Mercedes-Benz will build high-performance axial-flux electric motors at the Berlin plant, which will be modernized to achieve new heights in digitization and electrification, setting a new course for its future and expanding its product portfolio. Last summer Mercedes announced the acquisition of Yasa, a British manufacturer of high performance electric motors, thus guaranteeing access to a unique axial flux technology that will allow it to expand its vertical integration and the creation of value in development and production.
Starting this year, operations at the Berlin plant already include the assembly of electric drive units for compact Mercedes-EQ models and the so-called EE Compartment. Furthermore, the construction of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Factory Campus in Berlin for the development, testing and implementation of pioneering software applications has reached an advanced stage. A series of state-of-the-art pilot lines will go into operation next year.
Berlin will thus become the center of competence for digitization in the global Mercedes production network and will support the worldwide launch of new versions and apps in the MO360 ecosystem. At the same time the campus will become a training and qualification center with innovative approaches in the area of digital implementation. Mercedes will invest a triple-digit amount (in millions of euros) in the transformation of the Berlin plant within the next six years.