Seat Commits to Spanish Battery Cell Plant for Its EV Future
Seat, the Spanish automaker and subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, has announced plans to build a new battery cell assembly plant in Martorell, Spain. The company has committed an additional €300 million ($337 million) into the project, which is expected to create over 400 direct jobs and 10 indirect ones.
The new factory will cover an area of 64,000 square meters and will serve as the assembly site for PowerCo cells manufactured at a gigafactory in Sagunto, Valencia. This battery plant will be connected to Workshop 10, Seat’s facility that produces various electric vehicles (EVs) for the Volkswagen Group, including the upcoming Cupra Raval.
Seat President Wayne Griffiths emphasized the significance of this investment, stating, “This facility is fundamental for our company and will also provide the impulse to obtain a second platform in Martorell. This is a key moment for our industry.” The construction of the plant is set to begin in the coming weeks and is scheduled for completion in 2025.
The decision to establish a battery cell assembly plant aligns with Seat’s commitment to sustainable mobility and its ambition to position Spain as a hub for electric mobility in Europe. By investing in EV production and battery technology, Seat aims to contribute to the ongoing transition toward cleaner transportation.
Earlier this year, Griffiths revealed that Seat is currently focusing on electrifying its Cupra brand, prioritizing profitable models before expanding its EV lineup. As a result, the Seat brand will continue to produce combustion models for the time being, with no plans for an EV launch until at least 2026.
While some may view this strategy as stagnating for Seat, it is important to note that Cupra, under Griffiths’ leadership as CEO, is making significant strides in the EV market. Cupra has already introduced the Born EV, based on the VW ID.3 platform, and is preparing to launch the all-electric Tavascan SUV. Additionally, the UrbanRebel concept is set to inspire an electric hatchback called the Raval, scheduled for release in 2025.
Seat’s commitment to building a battery cell assembly plant reflects its dedication to the future of electric mobility. By investing in local production facilities, the company aims to secure a sustainable supply chain for EV batteries and contribute to the growth of Spain’s electric vehicle industry.
The establishment of the battery plant in Martorell will not only create job opportunities but also strengthen the region’s position as a center for automotive innovation and manufacturing. The project’s economic impact extends beyond direct employment, as it will also generate indirect jobs and support related industries.
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, automakers like Seat are recognizing the importance of securing a reliable supply of batteries. By investing in battery cell assembly plants, companies can reduce their dependence on external suppliers and ensure a stable production process.
Seat’s decision to invest in a battery cell assembly plant in Spain demonstrates its commitment to sustainable mobility and its role in the transition to electric vehicles. With the construction of the new facility underway, Seat is positioning itself for a future driven by clean energy and contributing to Spain’s emergence as a leader in electric mobility in Europe.
