VW reduces energy consumption per unit produced by 22%
Volkswagen de México announced that, as a result of the digitization of its systems, processes, and technical capabilities, the Puebla and Silao plants now collectively achieve 93.6% utilization of energy from renewable sources, while energy consumption per unit produced has been reduced by 22%.
For the German automaker, “these figures reflect not only technical progress, but also a transformation in the way production is planned, executed, and evaluated with smart technologies,” it notes in its report.
“In a context where efficiency, quality, and sustainability define the direction of automotive manufacturing, Volkswagen de México has made digitalization a concrete practice within its manufacturing operations. What was once projected as a horizon of future innovation is now a reality at VW,” said Europe's largest automaker.
“Digitization is a tangible tool for ensuring efficiency, quality, and sustainability in our plants. Investing in technology also means supporting the talent that makes it possible,” said Thomas Hahlbohm, Vice President of Production and Logistics.
The executive explained that within the company, there are three areas where digitization is already generating value in production.
One is energy analysis and efficiency, where the introduction of 100% electric ovens in processes such as the paint shop has improved thermal control and thus efficiency.
This measure was complemented by the replacement of fluorescent lighting with LED systems, which also generated significant energy savings.
The second front is dual training as a digital catalyst, which has emphasized the development of technical skills for the effective integration of digital tools in production.
With this initiative, Volkswagen de México has consolidated its dual training model as a breeding ground for talent prepared to operate and maintain automated systems.
The third pillar is industrial innovation for the transformation of the sector, where digitization is being promoted through strategic investments in supply chain optimization and operational excellence.
This adoption of digital solutions is focused on the production of electrified vehicles and reflects an evolution towards more efficient processes aligned with the global demand for sustainable mobility.
According to Volkswagen, the results of these digital implementations are measurable, as operations have increased their efficiency, reduced their environmental footprint, and strengthened their resilience in the face of new industrial challenges.
At the local level, these actions have also reinforced compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure) and SDG 13 (climate action).
Talent Incubator
This digitization would not be possible without the development of specialized technical talent. Since its founding in 1966, the Dual Training Center (CFD) has graduated nearly 6,000 apprentices, many of whom now hold key positions in automated production.
Currently, 194 students are enrolled in programs in automated manufacturing, industrial mechatronics, and industrial mechanical engineering, distributed between Puebla and Guanajuato. This training model, backed by partnerships with institutions such as IBERO Puebla, ensures a natural transition between the classroom and digitized production lines.
“The integration of these developments and talent represents not only a technological transformation, but also a commitment to an intelligent, sustainable, and talent-centered production model that consolidates Volkswagen de México as a leader in the country's industrial transformation,” concluded Hahlbom.
