The Volkswagen Group is not just revolutionizing the automotive sector with its Spanish gigafactory. The German manufacturer is now considering extending the use of its battery cells to the energy sector, opening up new perspectives for this key technology in the ecological transition.
A massive investment for the electric future
Last May, Volkswagen began construction of its gigafactory in Sagunto, Spain. This titanic project, representing an investment of 3 billion euros, is one of the largest ever carried out in the country. The main objective is to produce battery cells for electric vehicles manufactured in the factories in Martorell and Pamplona.
Construction, led by subsidiary PowerCo, is progressing rapidly. Preliminary infrastructure works, such as water pipes, drainage and waterproofing, have already been completed. The next stage, scheduled for November, concerns the construction of the buildings. The installation of production equipment is scheduled for 2025, with a view to starting production in 2026.
A broader vision: beyond the automobile
During a tour of the construction site, Javier Rivera, PowerCo's CFO, revealed a key piece of information: “We plan to supply new customers, not only in the automotive sector, but also in the energy sector.” This statement marks a strategic turning point for Volkswagen.
Indeed, the German group plans to use part of Sagunto's battery cell production to meet the needs of the energy sector, particularly in the field of energy storage. This diversification could play a crucial role in the energy transition, by making it possible to store excess electricity produced during periods of high production and reinject it into the grid during peak demand.
A flexible factory in the face of market uncertainties
Despite the current slowdown in electric vehicle sales, which has led some manufacturers to review their strategies, Volkswagen remains confident. “At PowerCo, we are convinced that electrification is the future and that the electric vehicle is here to stay,” says Javier Rivera.
However, the group has designed the Sagunto gigafactory as a “standardized and flexible plant, capable of adapting to market developments.” This cautious approach will allow Volkswagen to adjust its production according to actual demand, while exploring new markets for its battery technology.
A major economic impact for the region
Beyond its strategic importance for Volkswagen, the Sagunto gigafactory will have a considerable economic impact on the region. In its first phase, the plant is expected to employ around 1,500 people, with an initial production capacity of 20 GW. Eventually, when the second phase is launched, the workforce could reach 3,000 employees.
This job creation, combined with the emergence of an industrial ecosystem around battery production, could make the Valencia region a major hub for green industry in Europe.
A model for French industry?
Volkswagen’s initiative in Spain could serve as an inspiration for the French auto industry. As the country strives to develop its own electric battery sector, with projects such as the ACC gigafactory in Douvrin, the diversification of outlets could offer new opportunities for growth and innovation.
French manufacturers such as Renault or Stellantis could consider similar strategies for their future battery factories, thus contributing both to the transition to electric mobility and to strengthening the national electricity grid.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s decision to expand the use of its battery cells to the energy sector is a testament to the growing convergence between the automotive and energy industries. This innovative approach could well define a new paradigm for the industry, where gigafactories would no longer simply supply the automotive sector, but would play a key role in the global energy transition.