Car Showroom attended the opening of Volkswagen’s remarkable ‘Transparent Factory’ in Dresden (former East Germany) on 11 December 2001 and we’ve visited a few times since then.
By any measure it’s spectacular - Volkswagen’s ‘Transparent Factory’ (most of the walls are glass) is recognized as one of the architectural triumphs of modern Germany – a remember this is a car plant! The Dresden facility has set a benchmark no automotive plant since has equaled.
The ‘Transparent Factory’ (a passion of Volkswagen Chairman, Dr Piech) is home to the Phaeton, Volkswagen’s Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class-rivaling full-size prestige sedan which strangely is not included in Volkswagen Group Australia’s lineup. We’ve driven Phaetons extensively and can vouch Volkswagen’s brand leader matches its rivals in every department.
Volkswagen has made some 60,000 vehicles in 10 years at the Dresden facility and this year will be another record for Phaeton production.
In fact the Dresden ‘Transparent Factory’ more resembles a medical research facility than a car plant – the hush is overpowering. There’s no ‘production line’ as vehicles move silently on special individual carriers over a parquetry floor, tended by technicians in white coats.
And there’s no sparks or oily smells as major components are made off-site and transported to the plant (located in the heart of the magnificent city) via special trams which run on the regular commuter tracks – thus reducing pollution.
Obviously Volkswagen has become a major employer in Dresden, but the plant (located next to the Botanical Gardens) is much more than that and has become a cultural hub, holding events like opera concerts. Volkswagen’s commitment to Dresden has been a major factor in the re-building of the beautiful city.
