Tuesday 4 August 2015

GKN to boost driveline output in Poland

GKN Driveline has launched the first phase of a significant expansion of its operations in Poland, with the construction of a new production facility. 
The expansion gives GKN the capability to manufacture a range of driveline technologies, with a specific focus on increased side shaft capacity in the country.

Phase One, a €16.5 million investment, supports the growing needs of customers across Europe. GKN says strengthens its position as the leading driveline technology provider in the region.

About 400 new jobs could be created in a phased plan over the next four years to support the anticipated growth.

Construction has begun on the new 14,280 square metre production facility, which is expected to be complete by April 2016.



It will supply major car manufacturers in Europe and Russia, including Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi, Volvo, JaguarLandRover, Mercedes-Benz and FCA.

When Phase One is fully operational it will have capacity to produce over one million propeller shafts a year.

The facility is being sited adjacent to GKN’s existing plant in Olesnica, south west Poland, which produces constant velocity joints (CVJs), and increases the site’s overall footprint by over 50 per cent.

The expansion will also increase GKN’s Poland driveshaft production capacity to over 10 million units a year.

In addition, the site’s technical capabilities will be expanded as part of a large investment programme in GKNs global technology network.

Peter Moelgg president of engineering for GKN Automotive, describes Olesnica as “a perfect location” for advanced technology research and development, with outstanding potential engineers and scientists available from excellent local universities.

Helmuth Rohregger, GKN Driveline president Europe, adds: “Poland is an increasingly important automotive market, particularly as automakers expand into Eastern Europe, so this investment strengthens our position as the leading supplier of driveline technology to European manufacturers. I’m delighted to be part of this ground breaking ceremony and I look forward to returning to the site next year when the facility is complete and operational.”


“Poland has enjoyed remarkable success since we started operating here nearly 20 years ago and today Olesnica is one of our most important plants in Europe,” Rohregger adds. “We have developed a progressive, forward-thinking workforce that always looks towards continuous improvement, and this investment is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team over the past 20 years.“

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