The transition to more powerful electric motors has led Volkswagen to temporarily suspend production of some electric models, including the ID.4 and ID.7, due to a shortage of APP550 motors. This shutdown, which affects two of its factories, highlights problems in the manufacturer’s supply chain.
Volkswagen continues to innovate in the electric vehicle sector, constantly enriching its range with new models such as the ID.7, which stands out for its comfort, its good autonomy and its numerous standard equipment. This sedan, which specifically targets long-distance drivers, marks an important step in the manufacturer’s electrical strategy by positioning itself against high-ranking competitors. Furthermore, the ID.4 and ID.5 models also benefit from a breath of fresh air in 2024, with the introduction of new features and a drop in price, making them even more attractive.
Volkswagen introduced the electric motor APP550 to bring more performance and autonomy to its EVs. This innovative component which comes directly from the ID.7 sedan is intended to equip the latest versions of ID.4 and ID.5. It promises a clear improvement in terms of power and efficiency. The company is also enthusiastically preparing to launch the ID.2, envisaged as a revolutionary model thanks to its accessibility and performance. However, despite these ambitious plans, the German manufacturer faces an unforeseen obstacle which could delay this progress.
This more powerful engine forces Volkswagen to stop production of its electric models
Right now, Volkswagen production lines in Zwickau and Emden in Germany do not workleading to a stoppage of manufacturing major electric vehicles such as ID.4 and ID.7. This problem is caused by the lack of APP550 electric motors, essential for the brand’s new models. This engine, more powerful and efficient, is in out of stock, which blocks production. These engines, known for their superior performance, are manufactured at the manufacturer’s components plant in Kassel where supply difficulties caused this blockage. This situation directly affects more than 1000 workers of around 8,000 in Zwickau, highlighting the difficulties associated with adapting production processes to new technologies and dependence on key components.
Faced with this constraint, Volkswagen is doing everything possible to minimize the repercussions. There ID.7 prioritization for the delivery of APP550 engines available at the Emden plant aims to secure the rise of this model Lighthouse. This strategy highlights the crucial importance of this model in the manufacturer’s electric vehicle range and the brand’s commitment to overcoming supply chain obstacles. This pause in production, although tentative, reveals the obstacles manufacturers face in their quest for electrical innovation. This shows how crucial it is to have a strong supply chain, especially when we are committed to cutting-edge technologies.
Source: bnnbreaking