SEAT and
Cupra’s Martorell plant, has installed a new PXL press — one of the most advanced stamping systems in the world. Already in operation, it is producing body parts for current models and will soon be integral to the production of the Cupra Raval and Volkswagen ID. Polo, with a projected output of up to four million parts annually.
The PXL press is a showcase of modern engineering, combining power, precision, and connectivity. Alicia Molina, director of production process engineering at SEAT and CUPRA, said: “Thanks to its 15 strokes per min, we can stamp more parts in less time, with maximum efficiency.” This efficiency is further enhanced by a fully automated die-change system, which allows up to 15 changes each day. Jose Arreche, director of the SEAT and Cupra plant in Martorell, added: “By fully automating this process, we have managed to decrease the time it takes to change dies to just 5min between finishing the last part in a series and starting production of the first in the next one.”
The installation of the press itself was a significant technical undertaking. With a force of 81,000 kN, the press required a 9m deep pit and 20m deep concrete pile foundations — equivalent to the height of a seven-storey building. The development and construction spanned 40 months and demanded meticulous coordination across multiple departments. Alicia Molina said: “Communication and cross-functional work among the production process engineering, maintenance, production, logistics, IT, prevention and finance teams played a key role in the success of this mega-construction project.”
Connectivity is another hallmark of the new facility. Each stamping operation generates around 3,000 data points, enabling detailed analysis of production and maintenance. Alicia Molina explained: “We are currently developing two systems that will be key to interpreting this huge flow of data and gathering detailed information about production control and maintenance.”
Predictive maintenanceThe next phase will focus on predictive analytics to further optimise operations. The transition to electrification also extends to the workforce. Staff operating the PXL press have undergone extensive training to adapt to the new machinery and its digital capabilities. Mr Arreche continued: “Training was an essential part in preparing us for this change at all levels. We have changed our mindset, and now we are ready for the new electric era.”
SEAT S.A. is leading Spain’s charge into electric mobility. As the only company in the country that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets vehicles, it plays a pivotal role in the national automotive sector. Through its
Future: Fast Forward project, and in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group, PowerCo, and other partners, SEAT S.A. has invested €10 billion into Spain’s electrification. From 2026, the Martorell plant will begin producing 100% EVs, including the Cupra Raval, as part of the VW’s Electric Urban Car project.
With 14,000 employees and three production centres in Martorell, El Prat de Llobregat, and Barcelona, SEAT S.A. exports over 80% of its vehicles to more than 70 countries. As the company undergoes the most significant transformation in its 75-year history, it is positioning Spain as a European hub for EV production.