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Skoda Auto has manufactured the first production components for electric Volkswagen Group cars at its main plant in Mladá Boleslav. Skoda now produces high-voltage traction batteries for plug-in hybrids based on Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform.

Skoda, which has invested 25.3 million euros in the production lines for high-voltage batteries, started preparing the Mladá Boleslav plant for EV components two years ago. 13 robots with load capacities ranging from 210 to 500 kg are used on the production lines. These transport particularly heavy or bulky components and screw on battery modules and covers.

Michael Oeljeklaus, Skoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics, said, “In November 2017, Volkswagen Group decided to task Skoda Auto with the production of electric components for plug-in hybrid cars – a massive expression of trust. We have taken the required measures and rigorously executed the task. The high-voltage batteries, made in Mladá Boleslav, are proof of our outstanding technical expertise and the result of outstanding teamwork from all Škodians involved.”


The high-voltage batteries from Mladá Boleslav provide the electric energy for Volkswagen Group plug-in hybrids that are based on the MQB platform. The battery packs will be used in the Skoda Superb iV, for example. Production of this model is starting in September 2019 at the Kvasiny plant. Skoda has invested 25.3 million euros in the production lines for high-voltage batteries. Two years ago, the brand started preparing the Mladá Boleslav plant for the manufacturing of electric components. Over the next few years, Skoda will increase its initial production capacity of 150,000 units per year.

Christian Bleiel, Head of Component Production at Skoda Auto, said, “For us, this production of battery systems, which is very technologically challenging, is an important step in our switch to electromobility. We will further expand the production of electric components. In developing the expertise required for this, we are making use of the exchange of information between experts within our overarching Volkswagen Group Components network. This bundles together knowledge of everything from battery cells to recycling.”

When preparing for high-voltage battery production, Skoda not only worked on new production technologies but also on other electricity-related topics, including work safety, fire prevention, quality assurance and logistics. Working at the high-voltage assembly line requires specific safety measures and many electronic parts are very sensitive to electrostatic discharge.

Souce: Autocar Professional