Mercedes-Benz is fast-tracking the transformation of its production network with a substantial investment in the construction of a new “Next Generation Paintshop” at its Sindelfingen site. This high triple-digit-million-euro project aims to ensure the future viability of the plant and strengthens automotive production in Germany. “Sindelfingen is the pioneer among more sustainable and intelligent paint shops at Mercedes-Benz in Germany. We’re investing a high triple-digit million euro sum in the ‘Next Generation Paintshop’ at our plant. This investment in the strategic modernisation of production is a clear commitment by Mercedes-Benz to Germany as an industrial location,” said Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, responsible for Production, Quality and Supply Chain Management
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, Mercedes-Benz is advancing its eco-friendly business strategy in Germany. The project in Sindelfingen forms part of a long-term strategic collaboration with Dürr Systems. The ceremonial laying of the cornerstone for the new sustainable paint shop was attended by Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Baden-Württemberg’s Minister of Economic Affairs, alongside other prominent figures from politics and business.
The new facility marks a significant milestone in the continued transformation of the historic Sindelfingen plant, which celebrates its 110th anniversary this year. Once completed, the “Next Generation Paintshop” will operate without fossil fuels, fully powered by green electricity, setting a new standard for sustainability in automotive production. Scheduled to open in the spring of 2028, the paint shop will be located on the site of the former Assembly Hall 36, strategically positioned near Factory 56—home to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, and the all-electric EQS—and Hall 46, where the E-Class and GLC are assembled.
The new paint shop, covering approximately 170,000 m², will be constructed on a 60,000 m² footprint. As a “brownfield” project, the construction incorporates recycled materials, including concrete and base course materials from the demolition of the previous assembly hall, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to resource conservation and waste reduction.
The facility will feature an environmentally-friendly building design, along with cutting-edge paint technologies that aim to reduce energy consumption by 50% compared to the existing facility. The primary goal is to significantly decrease energy use per painted car body—a key efficiency target. This will be achieved through advanced software applications from Dürr for energy management and energy-efficient technologies that enable the paint booths and dryers to operate more economically and intelligently.
“This investment in the Sindelfingen plant is a clear commitment to Baden-Württemberg as an automotive centre. It’s therefore very good news in difficult times, both for the employees and the industrial location as a whole. The German and European automotive industry is under enormous economic pressure and competition is very challenging in all international markets. Investments at the site are strong and vital indicators in the current times are more important than ever. The Sindelfingen plant is well positioned for the future thanks to the new and sustainable paint shop, which means the site is optimally equipped for future vehicle generations.” said Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism of the State of Baden-Württemberg
“This investment at the Sindelfingen site is a testament to the trust in our capabilities and our quality, as well as the result of consistent negotiations. In July 2014, we were able to secure the necessary investments with our company agreement ‘Future Vision Sindelfingen 2020+’ and thereby lays the foundation for a modern and efficient painting process. This agreement demonstrates that we are collectively capable of sustainably strengthening our site, thereby securing jobs and enhancing our competitiveness.” said Ergun Lümali, Chairman of the General Works Council of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chairman of the Works Council of the Mercedes-Benz Plant Sindelfingen
