Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is set to expand its Września plant in Poland to produce the next generation of its all-electric Crafter van.
The site, which celebrates its tenth anniversary next year was purpose built to produce the VW Crafter after Volkswagen ended their agreement with Mercedes to share the Sprinter platform.
It will now see two new production halls constructed, with a modern body shop and a dedicated battery warehouse, added as part of a large-scale investment by Volkswagen Poznań. The new facilities will enable the plant to handle the next-generation Crafter electric van and its advanced electric architecture as part of a major step forward in the brand’s electrification strategy.
“The Września plant is one of the most modern facilities in the Volkswagen Group and the only location where we produce both the Crafter and the MAN TGE,” said Stefan Mecha, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
“Expanding production for the next generation of our all-electric Crafter is the next logical step in electrifying our lineup. This new electric generation will further strengthen our position in the commercial vehicle segment,” Mecha added.
Construction is due to begin with the foundation stone being laid in November 2025, followed by full-scale building work in early 2026. Completion is expected in 2027.
Volkswagen Poznań chairwoman Stefanie Hegels said the move was “strategically important” for both the company and the region.
“As part of the investment, a modern body shop and battery warehouse will be built, tailored to the production requirements of the new electric Crafter. This strengthens our position as a manufacturer of modern vehicles and enhances job security for the future,” Hegels said.
The Września site covers 220 hectares, roughly the size of 300 football pitches, and is among Europe’s most advanced vehicle plants. It uses more than 1,300 robots and AI-based quality control systems in its production. Volkswagen Poznań also currently employs around 9,000 people, making it the largest employer in Greater Poland.
Piotr Olbryś, chairman of the “Solidarność” union at Volkswagen Poznań, said: “This expansion is a clear signal to our employees. Producing next-generation electric vehicles is a vital step in developing competencies that will help secure jobs in the future.”
The plant already operates on 100% renewable energy, including an on-site solar array that supplies up to a quarter of its annual energy needs and can power the entire factory in optimal conditions.
Local leaders have welcomed the expansion as a boost for the economy and community.
Artur Mokracki, acting Mayor of Września, said: “Volkswagen has played a decisive role in the development of Września for years. The company is not only the largest employer in the region but also a partner that supports local initiatives, invests in modern technologies, and strengthens our educational and social potential.”
