Global truck manufacturer Scania (
www.scania.com) is planning to construct a new foundry in Södertälje, Sweden, in order to triple its production capacity and achieve a 50% reduction in energy consumption compared to the technology and methods used in its current foundry.
The new plant will be operated with electricity from renewable-energy sources.
Executive vice president Ruthger de Vries said: “In the on-going shift towards a fossil-free society, even more energy-efficient combustion engines — as well as combustion engines that operate on biofuels and gas — will be needed. The new foundry will be instrumental in providing such engines.”
This new facility represents one of Scania’s largest investments in an entirely new plant, and the decision followed a comprehensive analysis of various alternatives, such as increased purchasing from external suppliers or a conversion and extension of the existing foundry.
Mr de Vries said: “A completely new plant is the most cost-efficient solution — and the best from an environmental and quality standpoint — when it comes to the future supply of strategically important parts for our engine production.
“Through this investment, we will also retain important proximity to our research and development organisation.”
The current foundry — constructed in 1914 — is located on an industrial estate near central Södertälje, while the new plant will be built at the Tveta industrial estate in one of the outlying areas of the city. The start of construction is planned for January 2019.
When running at full capacity, the new foundry will employ the same number of people as the existing foundry — almost 200.