Carmaker Audi to Develop a Diecasting Facility

Carmaker Audi, Ingolstadt, Germany, has purchased a manufacturing site in Münchsmünster, Germany, on which it plans to develop a diecasting facility, among other operations, by the end of 2013. According to a company press release, Audi purchased 40 hectares of land in Münchsmünster to accommodate some of the growth of its Ingolstadt manufacturing site. The carmaker initially will develop around 27 hectares of the land to launch assembly and machining capacity, in addition to the diecasting operation. “The strategic investment in Münchsmünster is part of our growth strategy, ” said Frank Dreves, an Audi board member. “It allows us to free up capacity at existing plants and use sites in the surrounding area for future technologies. ” Dreves said Audi believes expanding its expertise in aluminum diecasting will be an important part of the new manufacturing facility’s success. “Diecast components are a central element of our lightweight construction strategy, ” Dreves said. “Having our own diecasting foundry will enable us to advance the necessary technology and guarantee the long-term supply of diecast aluminum parts. " Audi is also planning the production of sheet metal and thermoformed parts. Development of the site will start in 2012, and operations are expected to commence in the second half of 2013. Source:moderncasting.com