Daimler Makes Its First Factory a High-Tech Powertrain Center

Daimler AG says it is investing €1 billion this year to expand capacity at its historic Unterturkheim factory in Stuttgart and make the facility its global center for advanced powertrain development and production.

The 110-year-old complex will build plug-in hybrid and fuel-cell systems in addition to increasing its output of conventional engines, transmissions and other powertrain components, according to Daimler. Among the additions will be a new 4-cylinder diesel and two new gasoline engines.

In June Unterturkheim will take over fuel-cell production from Daimler's facility in nearby Nabern. The Nabern facility will continue to act as the group's development center for fuel-cell systems.