The new Audi toolmaking shop

Photo: Audi AG

The new building covers an area of around 27,000 square metres (110 x 260 metres). Equipment highlights include 17 running-in presses with a pressing force of up to 2,100 tons, eight large machining tools, including four new systems interlinked by a pallet system, and a "try-out area" for assembling complete body manufacturing lines up to 75 metres long.

The first construction phase for the new toolmaking shop, which was completed in summer 1999, saw the production of the tools for the Audi A2, the first volume-production aluminium model. "The forming process for the one-piece aluminium side-panel frame was developed by our employees, and a patent application for it has now been filed," remarked Michael Kaltenecker, Head of the Toolmaking Division at AUDI AG.

Wolfgang Förster, Deputy Chairman of the Works Council of AUDI AG: "The design and layout of the new toolmaking shop offer our employees better working conditions. The perceived sound level, for example, has been reduced by half. Lifting platforms can be used to set individual working heights and cooling ceilings in offices make sure that temperatures remain at a pleasant level in the hot months of summer."

Besides Audi, the Audi toolmaking shop is to supply pressing tools, body manufacturing lines and assembly appliances for the production of body panels and assemblies to other car manufacturers in the Audi Group as well as to external companies. Last May the Audi toolmaking shop became the first of its kind in the world to receive certification according to Guideline 6.4 of the Verband der deutschen Automobilindustrie (Association of the German Automotive Industry) from TÜV Süddeutschland (South German Technical Inspection Association). A total of around 1,100 staff are employed in toolmaking at the Ingolstadt (750) and Neckarsulm (350) plants.

(April 6, 2000)