Baden-Württemberg International: Your partner for a successful expansion

Baden-Württemberg, the birthplace of the automobile, has become a global leader in electromobility and sustainable mobility technologies. Companies investing in this future-oriented sector can leverage a robust industrial base, a vast network of leading research institutes, universities, and startups fostering groundbreaking innovations. Baden-Württemberg International (BW_i) supports businesses in establishing a successful presence in the region and tapping into its’ unique ecosystem.

A Strong Network: Synergy of Industry, Research and Education
Baden-Württemberg's strength is innovation and the close collaboration between industry, research and education, creating an ideal environment for companies in the electromobility sector. Major automotive players like Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Bosch are leading the charge in electromobility, alongside specialized companies such as Valmet Automotive and Fortum, which have recently established their operations in the state of Baden-Württemberg:

• Valmet Automotive, a key player in the production of battery modules and electric powertrains, chose Baden-Württemberg for its’ strategic location close to automotive manufacturers and access to a strong research environment. This has enabled the company to efficiently develop and produce cutting-edge battery technologies.
• Fortum, a Finnish leader in battery recycling, has also set up operations in Baden-Württemberg contributing to the sustainability of electromobility through innovative solutions for recycling lithium-ion batteries.

Source : Mercedes-Benz Group

Research and Education: World-Leading Expertise in Battery Technology and E-Mobility

Baden-Württemberg’s universities and research institutions are key drivers of progress in electromobility. The state is home to renowned institutes like the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research (ZSW) in Ulm, the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA) and the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research in Stuttgart. The CELEST research platform offers opportunities for cooperation in the field of battery cell production and ARENA2036 provides ideal conditions for young innovative companies to develop products in close cooperation with large suppliers or OEMs.

Additionally, Baden-Württemberg has a strong educational infrastructure that ensures a steady pipeline of skilled professionals for the electromobility sector. Many universities in the region offer specialized E-Mobility degree programs, including:

• Automotive Systems and Engineering at Esslingen University of Applied Sciences with interdisciplinary research by the Institute for Sustainable Energy Technology and Mobility
• E-Mobility at the University of Stuttgart, including the InnovationCampus Mobility of the Future together with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
• E-Mobility at the Ravensburg-Weingarten University, Heilbronn University and DHBW Mannheim

Successful Expansions: Baden-Württemberg as a Magnet for E-Mobility Companies

The recent investments of companies like Valmet Automotive and Fortum demonstrates how attractive Baden-Württemberg is for the electromobility sector. Both companies benefit from proximity to research institutions and the region’s strong industrial base. Other success stories, such as Customcells, Cellforce or the battery manufacturing and recycling factories of Mercedes-Benz further highlight Baden-Württemberg’s appeal as a destination for companies leading the way in electromobility.

Baden-Württemberg International: Your Pathway to Success

Baden-Württemberg International (BW_i) provides comprehensive support to businesses entering the electromobility market in the region. Our services include:

1. Site selection and market analysis: BW_i helps companies find the best location based on proximity to industry partners, research institutions and access to skilled talent.
2. Networking with research institutions: We connect companies with key institutes and leaders in battery technology, allowing them to benefit from cutting-edge innovations.
3. Regulatory support: BW_i offers assistance with all administrative and regulatory processes, including permits and funding, ensuring a smooth setup for your business.
4. Access to skilled professionals: Through partnerships with regional universities and technical schools offering specialized e-mobility degree programs, BW_i helps companies recruit top talent in fields such as engineering, battery technology, and electric drivetrain systems.
5. Funding programs: We guide businesses in identifying the right funding programs to support their research, development, and production activities in electromobility technologies.

Why Baden-Württemberg?

Baden-Württemberg offers a unique combination of leading industrial expertise, world-class research, and forward-thinking educational programs in electromobility. Recent settlements have recognized that the state not only provides an excellent infrastructure but also fosters innovation through close collaboration between industry and academia. With the support of Baden-Württemberg International, your business can take full advantage of these strengths and establish a successful foothold in this thriving market.

Meet our colleague Yannick Heller at the AEC 2024 and learn how BW_i can assist your expansion into Baden-Württemberg during his Agora speech!