Chinese automotive supplier, Beijing WKW Automotive is to construct a EUR1.13bn (US$1.24bn) plant for premium electric cars in Rothenburg/Oberlausitz in Saxony, alleviating what the German State describes as “upvheaval” in the region.
Investing through WKW subsidiary, Delon Automotive, the plan is to produce electric vehicles for the European market with around 1,000 jobs created.
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“I received the announcement from the Chinese investor with great pleasure,” said Saxony Prime Minister, Stanislaw Tillich. “It is also a testament to the great personal commitment of the landrat (regional administrator) to the establishment of new, viable companies in his district.
“The realisation of the factory for the manufacture of electric vehicles for the European market will help to promote structural change in the Lausitz region.”
With around 750 companies, the State has a dense supplier network, including electromobility as well as research and development. “This news is a great hope for a region that is in a state of upheaval,” said Saxony Minister for Economic Affairs, Martin Dulig.
“We will be happy to support the investor, so the announcement will lead to an automotive plant. Saxony is already today ‘automobilland’ and we want to remain so in the future. The announcement of the investors speaks for its strength and innovative power. “
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By GlobalDataCalls to authorities in Saxony clarified the Economic Minister’s ‘upheaval’ comments as relating to a reduction in coal production during the next 15-20 years because of the energy transition in Germany.
Rothenburg was able to compete with other locations in the south of Germany, Thuringia and SaxonyAnhalt. “I am pleased with the decision by Beijing WKW Automotive to make this investment in the district of Görlitz,” added Görlitz district governor, Bernd Lange.
“It is a forward-looking sign to promote the development of the structure in the Lausitz region and to strengthen our region with new value-added chains and products.”
Saxony has been cooperating with Chinese partners for many years.
Between Saxony and the People’s Republic of China, intensive relations have been established through regular delegation trips and visits to trade fairs and conferences since the early 1990s.
Currently there are 15 Chinese investors in Saxony.
