Celebrating 120 years of innovation and excellence, the Mercedes-Benz plant and headquarters in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim marks a significant milestone in its storied history. Since its inception in May 1904, when the Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft relocated its administration from Cannstatt to Untertürkheim, the plant has evolved into a high-tech hub for drive technologies.
The site, one of the oldest in the Mercedes-Benz network, initially produced engines, transmissions, and complete vehicles. Over time, it expanded to include various sections, focusing heavily on development and testing. Today, Untertürkheim is a key player in the global Mercedes-Benz powertrain production network, producing over 2 million engines, transmissions, axles, components, and batteries annually for vehicles across three continents.
READ MORE: Top EV Charging Spots Around the World: Best Places to Power Your Electric Vehicle
A highlight of this anniversary is the newly inaugurated Mercedes-Benz eCampus, a center dedicated to the development of cells and batteries for future electric vehicles. This investment, in the three-digit million-euro range, underscores Untertürkheim’s pivotal role in the company’s transition to electromobility and reinforces its status as a leading high-tech facility for drive technologies. Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, highlighted the plant’s ongoing importance, stating, “Untertürkheim will continue to drive Mercedes-Benz into the electric age, reinforcing its role in the global powertrain production network.”
Thomas Schulz, Chairman of Mercedes-Benz Drive Systems and Plant Manager at Untertürkheim, echoed this sentiment, noting the plant’s history of innovation and progress driven by the expertise, experience, and passion of its employees. Michael Häberle, Chairman of the Works Council at Untertürkheim, also expressed gratitude towards the workforce, emphasizing their role in achieving this milestone.
The 120th anniversary celebration is a grand employee event featuring a colorful entertainment program attended by over 50,000 guests, including employees and their families. Notable figures such as Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, and other Board members, are present to commemorate the occasion. The festivities include open production and development areas, exhibitions highlighting the plant’s history and future, and an impressive laser show to conclude the day.
Mercedes-Benz Stuttgart-Untertürkheim remains at the forefront of automotive innovation. The site encompasses several sub-sites in the Neckar valley, producing flexible drive systems for both fully electric and electrified vehicles. It is responsible for producing drive components and houses significant portions of the company’s drivetrain research and development facilities, including a test track and the Mercedes-Benz eCampus. The location is also home to the Group’s central van division and research and development activities. With more than 23,000 employees, including 14,100 in production, Untertürkheim is preparing to ramp up production of electric drive units for fully electric Mercedes-Benz vehicles starting in 2024.
Untertürkheim’s contributions extend to various specialized plants. In Bad Cannstatt, highly efficient engines are produced, while Mettingen handles axle production for all drivetrains and parts for electric drive units. Hedelfingen focuses on transmission production and battery systems for the all-electric EQS and EQE models. Additionally, Sirnau hosts flexible production, and Brühl is the center for training and battery manufacturing for plug-in hybrid models.
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainability is evident, with all production sites achieving net carbon neutrality since 2022. By 2030, the company aims to meet over 70% of its production energy requirements through renewable energy, leveraging solar and wind energy expansions and power purchase agreements. The ultimate goal is for all Mercedes-Benz production plants worldwide to operate on 100% renewable energy by 2039.
READ MORE: From Icon to Evolution: How the Ferrari 512 TR and F512 M Built on the Testarossa Legacy
Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox
