In a significant move towards electrifying its product portfolio, Daimler Truck has officially inaugurated the Battery Technology Center (BTC) at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Mannheim. This development marks a critical step forward in the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, highlighting the Mannheim plant's role as a competence center for battery technology and high-voltage systems. The BTC's opening not only underlines Daimler Truck's strategic shift towards emission-free drives but also reinforces the future viability of the Mannheim location within the global automotive landscape.
A Hub for Innovation and Development
Located in a newly renovated and expanded building that dates back to 1952, the BTC occupies an area of 10,000 square meters. This space is dedicated to advancing battery technology through the development and production of commercial vehicle-specific battery cells and packs. The center features over 60 state-of-the-art machines and systems designed for coating, welding, assembly, and adhesive processes necessary for prototypical battery cell and system production.
The BTC is divided into two main areas: the cell area and the pilot line for battery pack production. In the cell area, experts focus on gaining extensive product and process knowledge regarding the manufacturing of battery cells. This includes experimenting with different recipes in producing battery paste or "slurry," which is crucial for creating prototype battery cells. These cells are then used to build battery modules and packs, essential components in the future production of battery-electric trucks.
Strategic Vision for the Future
The establishment of the BTC aligns with Daimler Truck's strategic vision of maintaining crucial added value in-house and supporting the transformation of its traditional engine plant towards emission-free technologies. Andreas Gorbach, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck and responsible for Truck Technology, emphasized the importance of the BTC in electrifying the company's product portfolio and strengthening the future of the Mannheim site.
“The opening of our Battery Technology Center is an important step in terms of electrifying our product portfolio – and yet another milestone in the history of innovation at the Mannheim plant,” said Gorbach. “We have decided to take care of the assembly of the future battery generation ourselves and thus keep important added value in-house.”
Enhancing Competence and Collaboration
The BTC not only focuses on technological advancements but also fosters a collaborative environment for development and production planning. This integration ensures that the expertise gained in the BTC directly contributes to the maturation of future products. Michael Salmen, Head of Production Planning Battery and BTC, highlighted the collaborative effort: “At the Battery Technology Center, we are building up expertise and making a direct contribution to the development and maturation of future products with our prototypes. At the same time, development and production planning work closely together here – as a real team!”
The center's innovative office concept, featuring various work zones designed to enhance creativity, productivity, and efficiency, further supports this collaborative approach. Additionally, the BTC building incorporates sustainable elements such as a green façade, an extensive green roof, and photovoltaic systems capable of powering around 50 detached houses, aligning with Daimler Truck's commitment to sustainability.
