Mercedes-Benz is committing a high triple-digit million euro investment to construct a groundbreaking, eco-efficient “Next Generation Paintshop” at its historic Sindelfingen plant, as part of its strategy to revolutionize automotive manufacturing with digital, sustainable, and intelligent solutions.
Contents
A Major Step Toward Sustainable Production
The Next Generation Paintshop represents a significant milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to climate-neutral production. Scheduled to begin operations in spring 2028, the facility will operate entirely without fossil fuels and be powered by 100% green electricity.
Key environmental and operational benefits include:
- 50% reduction in total energy consumption
- 60% reduction in emissions
- Over 50% less water usage with full wastewater recycling
- 170,000 m² facility built on a 60,000 m² brownfield site
- Integration of recycled materials from the previous hall
- Intelligent energy systems supported by heat pumps and photovoltaic panels
Strategic Investment for Future-Proof Manufacturing
Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management for Production, Quality and Supply Chain at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the importance of this investment:
“Sindelfingen is setting the benchmark for more sustainable and intelligent paint shops in Germany. This project strengthens our commitment to Germany as a production hub.”
The new paint shop is part of a strategic collaboration with Dürr Systems, a long-standing partner in industrial automation and energy-efficient technologies.
Strengthening the Sindelfingen Legacy
Celebrating its 110th anniversary, the Sindelfingen site will house one of the most advanced automotive paint facilities in the world. It will be located adjacent to Factory 56, where the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, and EQS are assembled, and near Hall 46, which builds the E-Class and GLC.
Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister of Economic Affairs for Baden-Württemberg, stated:
“This investment is a vital signal for both our workforce and Germany’s industrial future. It enhances competitiveness and secures jobs in a challenging global environment.”
Advanced Technology & Digital Twin Integration
The paint shop’s operations will be fully integrated into MO360, Mercedes-Benz’s digital production ecosystem, enabling:
- Real-time data access and analytics
- Virtual commissioning via digital twin for faster ramp-up
- Full coverage of all paint processes, from corrosion protection to surface finishing
- AI-powered building monitoring based on proven pilots from the Rastatt facility
Approximately 250 robots and a suite of state-of-the-art systems will contribute to the facility’s precision, efficiency, and sustainability.
Green Building and Biodiversity Enhancements
- 20,000 m² of solar panels installed on the roof
- Green roofs and parks totaling over 8,000 m²
- Enhanced biodiversity and air quality
- Intelligent exhaust-air purification systems
Ergun Lümali, Chairman of the General Works Council at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, highlighted:
“Thanks to collaborative foresight and our ‘Future Vision Sindelfingen 2020+’ agreement, this facility not only secures jobs but also strengthens the plant’s global competitiveness.”
Summary of Key Benefits
| Feature | Impact |
|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | 50% lower consumption vs. previous facility |
| Emissions Reduction | Approx. 60% decrease in emissions |
| Water Conservation | Over 50% reduction with full recycling |
| Green Power | Operates entirely on renewable electricity |
| Digital Integration | Full MO360 and digital twin support |
| Sustainable Construction | Uses recycled materials and brownfield development |
Mercedes-Benz’s new Sindelfingen paint shop is more than just an investment—it’s a bold step toward a smarter, greener future for automotive manufacturing in Germany.
