New technologies, new knowledge
So far, the US models VW Atlas, VW Atlas Cross and VW Passat have been assembled in Chattanooga. At the beginning of 2022, assembly of the Passat was phased out, and in July that of the all-electric ID.4 began. There was also a great deal of interest among the core workforce in switching to battery production or to the assembly of the ID.4. At hands-on training stations, such as facilities from car body construction, the employees were able to practise the new work steps and hand movements. Two ID.4s and high-voltage batteries were brought to the USA from Germany as “training objects”.
Meanwhile, the staff has completed more than 75,000 hours of training. “We have also adapted our vocational training and the content accordingly. This includes, for example, high-voltage technology and automation technology,” says Head of Training Subasi.
Stability in spite of change
In the USA, staff turnover is traditionally high, with up to a quarter of industrial workers leaving their jobs each year. At the plant in Tennessee, the rate is much lower – about a third of the workforce has even been there from the beginning. Volkswagen Chattanooga is now the largest industrial employer in the region. The overall offer is just right, says Burkhard Ulrich: “A healthy corporate culture, good pay and health insurance – which is not a certainty in the USA. But we also offer development prospects, we are growing and will continue to do so.”