Innovation CoastAutomotive Excellence from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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"The effective cooperation between economic development agencies and permit authorities shows that our state offers outstanding conditions for investment projects. Every investor is welcome here."

Harry GlaweMinister of Economics, Construction and Tourism Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Companies profit from the excellent transport network, highly trained work-force, and investor-friendly environment, as well as the low prices and excel-lent availability of commercial and industrial sites. The industry network automotive-mv seeks to secure and develop the state’s position in the inter- national automotive-manufacturing market by promoting regional and national cooperation between producers, suppliers, service providers, universities, and research institutes. Four of the world’s leading 100 automotive suppliers already have manufacturing facilities in Germany’s northeastern state.

Four autobahns pass through Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, leading in all direc-tions. The extension of the A14 autobahn is improving access to Central and Southern Germany. Exceptional sea and hinterland connections are offered by the state’s own Baltic Sea ports in the north and the nearby Port of Hamburg just west of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. These ports serve as key links in inter-national transport networks.

An increasing number of multinational companies are choosing Mecklenburg- Vorpommern for its excellent business environment, workforce, and infra- structure. In addition, some 100 SMEs with approx. 5,000 highly qualified em-ployees generate an annual turnover of around 1.5 billion euros.

Webasto – Global market leader from Neubrandenburg

The company Webasto Neubrandenburg GmbH is part of the Webasto Group, which specializes in heating, cooling, and roof systems for vehicles. Since 1990, the global market leader has produced more than 16 million vehicle heating systems at its Neubrandenburg facility. Webasto is one of the world’s TOP 100 automotive suppliers. As the most important production site for auxiliary and parking heaters worldwide and an international logistics hub for OE customers and the aftermarket, Webasto Neubrandenburg is the number-one supplier of thermo and comfort systems in the north.

ml&s – Logistics to the highest standardsAs a full-service provider, ml&s GmbH & Co. KG, based in Greifswald, produces electronic systems and components for national and international companies. ml&s is active in a wide range of fields, including the telecommunications, renewable energies, IT, manufacturing, and automotive industries. Customers profit from its extensive portfolio of services, ranging from design consultation, component placement, and complete system configuration to worldwide shipping and after-sales service. The modern manufacturing equipment and experienced employees with outstanding know-how guarantee on-time delivery and top quality. ml&s also operates its own on-site logistics center.

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern offers outstanding conditions for the automotive industry. The metropolitan areas and economic centers of Scandinavia and of Central and Eastern Europe are reachable within very short time scales via well-maintained roads and new autobahns.

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is going global

Quality, specialists & on-time deliverySuppliers and logistics service providers are governed by the same high standards of quality. Nowhere are the demands for supplier reliability and flexibility as immense as in the automotive sector. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, these standards are guaranteed, and at competitive prices.

High-precision global-market products from Mecklenburg-VorpommernCompanies from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern supply their customers worldwide with high-precision products and cooperate with the top international research institutes. Highly qualified employees, e. g. at global players like

TRW, Webasto, and Lear Corp., produce and coordinate complex supply systems involving large varieties of pro-ducts and components. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, airbag gas generators are produced by the company TRW Airbag Systems, safety castings by MAT Foundries Europe, and cable for heating systems by Eberspächer. The processed materials range from rubber and plastics to leather, copper, aluminum, stainless steel, special steel, manganese steel, and spheroidal graphite iron.

MAT – Cast-iron guarantee of safety The foundry in the border and seaport town of Ueckermün-de was established in 1892 and has been part of the interna-

2 I Innovation Coast Titel der Broschüre I 3

tionally active, US-based group MAT Holdings since 2010. Parts from the market leader for complex safety com-ponents can be found in almost every third vehicle in Europe. The company has specialized in the manufacturing of versatile and highly durable spheroidal graphite iron castings, capable of with-standing the most extreme conditions.

High performance on any terrain – Oberaigner AutomotiveOberaigner has been one of the lead-ing suppliers of drivetrain and all-wheel-drive systems for commercial vehicles for several years. Founded in 1977 in Austria, the family-owned company now produces all-wheel drive technology for Mercedes-Benz and other well-known OEMs at its new location in Rostock-Laage. Ober- aigner Automotive GmbH is also a leader in off-road commercial vehi-cles with superior engineering and quality: the company has developed a number of innovative technologies, including the six-wheel drive and state-of-the-art transmission and axle systems.

Lear Corp. – Reliability and quality made from plasticWith its 132,000 employees at 235 locations in 34 countries, Lear is one of the world ’s leading auto- motive suppliers, producing complete seating systems, electronic products, and electrical distribution systems. Specia lizing in the production of plastic connectors for the auto- motive sector and other industries, the Lear factory in Wismar is a reli- able partner for customers world-wide. The Baltic Sea facility operates 75 injection molding machines with clamping forces between 25 and 320 t, 10 automatic punching presses with punching forces between 25 and 50 t, and fully automated assembly lines.

The excellent location factors are attracting more and more investors to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Highly qualified professionals ensure exceptional productivity and quality, complemented by outstanding supply-chain management. Just-in-time and just-in-sequence processes are implemented to the highest standards.

"Working in a place where others spend their holi-days – it’s just so enjoyable creating something here in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, together with highly quali-fied employees. We at Lear Corporation have been pro-ducing plastic housings and stamped contacts for the automotive in-dustry since 2004. In recent years, we have acquired new injection molding machines, plastic silos and added a new logistics building to our facility in Wismar."

Rainer BösePlant Manager Lear Corporation Wismar

50% of the tractors produced in Germany are equipped with a hydrostatic steering system from Hydraulik Nord in Parchim.

High-tech cold-extruded aluminum U-joints for steering columns from Flamm Precomp GmbH in Laage.

1.2 million plastic parts for automotive electronic systemsare produced daily by highly efficient injectionmolding machines at Lear Corp. in Wismar.

40,000 bought-in parts made from heat-resistant steel are shaped at Lang Metallwarenproduktion in Woldegk every day with 250 tons of pressing force.

30 million holders for ABS and ESP systems are produced every year from special rubber at the factory Gummifabrik Lubeca in Upahl.

Precision components for exhaust-gas turbochargers from EcoNautic Systems GmbH.

Every third vehicle in Europe has a spheroidal graphite iron brake anchor from the MAT Foundries Europe plant in Ueckermünde.

Payloads of 4 tons and the roughest terrain can be managed by the innovative 6 x 6 off-road transporter from the Oberaigner Automotive plant in Laage.

One-tenth of the thickness of a banknote is the toleranceto which pump cylinders are produced at PTS precision in Schwerin.

Using 2,000 metric tons of clamping force per cm2,Teterower Kunststoffe GmbH produces plastic parts of all sizes.

Every day, 800,000 purchased parts pass through the incoming goods depart-ment of Webasto GmbH in Neubrandenburg.

100% functional reliability for airbag components is guaranteed by Rhodius in Laage. 130,000 airbag gas generators

are produced daily at TRW Airbag Systems in Laage on fully automated production lines.

10 million meters of tubing are molded each year by SD GmbH Klaus Hirsch into high-precision guide tubes or wind deflectors.Equipping the world

with high-tech fromMecklenburg-Vorpommern

1 million ignition lead sets from the company BREMI Fahrzeug-Elektrik in Dömitz are installed in new vehicles every year.

Automotive innovations for sustainable mobility When lives are saved in fractions of a second, when driver and passenger com-fort can be guaranteed year-round, when vehicle electrical systems function reliably under all conditions, or when heavy-duty, all-wheel-drive vehicles transport cargo over rough terrain – then it most likely involves innovative technology from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Companies in the state are also developing sustainable solutions for the increasing mobility demands of the future and are well represented in the growing market for electric vehicles.

Industry meets natureThe automotive value chain focuses on technical precision, safety, and comfort, while contributing to environmental sustainability. This applies

not only to energy consumption and CO2 emissions, but also to the man- ufacturing and later recycling of the vehicle. Automotive companies in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are also prioritizing innovative technologies like power electronics for electric and hybrid drives. Process, energy, and material efficiency not only protect the environment but also contribute to sustainable cost reduction. Lear Corporation GmbH in Wismar specializes in the production of electronic connectors from plastic and has a strong background in “green” manufacturing and lightweight design.

Automotive from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – Customized, effective, and award-winningAutomotive suppliers from northeastern Germany have earned an excellent reputation as innovative role-model companies for state-of-the-art manufac- turing technologies, customized automation solutions, and lean management. Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s multi-award-winning automotive sector has established a strong presence in the global market, performing well against the competition in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. This success is built on a commitment to excellence in product quality, research, and productivity. Other important factors include ingenuity and a large pool of highly motivated work- ers who implement efficient and sustainable practices and do a first-rate job.

Currently, passenger cars are our main means of transportation, and commercial vehicles are the backbone of the freight-transport industry. In the future, traffic is expected to become even heavier, meaning that requirements for safety, comfort, and environmental compatibility will continue to increase.

"For 20 years now, our company has been benefiting from the excel-lent conditions in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. These include, above all, the well-trained and highly motivated workforce, the uncompli-cated, pragmatic cooperation with state authorities, and the innovative capabilities of all employees and partners."

Stephan Gappa, Plant Manager of TRW Airbag Systems GmbH

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At the top – awards for excellence from northeastern Germany

TRW Airbag Systems GmbH in Laage has received multiple awards – including the “Ludwig-Erhard Prize for top per-formance and competitiveness” – for its highly effective integrated management system and outstanding market po-sition. TRW has developed a number of innovative products in the passive-vehicle-safety segment, including seat belts with integrated airbags and curtain airbags for windows, which have taken occupant safety to a new level. The company is also a “Best Practice Partner” in the automotive-mv network.

Webasto Neubrandenburg GmbH is a production and deve-lopment facility for vehicle heating systems. In 2015, the company earned the title of “Best Brand” from the German car magazine auto motor und sport for the tenth time in a row and was rated once again as one of “Germany’s Best 50 Workplaces”. Its product innovation “Electric High-voltage Heater” received the eCarTec Award. The company is also a “Best Practice Partner” in the automotive-supplier network automotive-mv.

One of numerous innovations from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern: Oberaigner has developed a six-wheel drive system that is revolutionizing the market.

Inventor on the job: the company TRW Airbag Systems is setting new benchmarks in occupant protection.

The high-voltage heater from Webasto guarantees comfortable temperatures in electric vehicles all year round.

The next generation – made in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

(Solar)-competent partnersThe companies ml&s GmbH & Co. KG and Webasto in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern worked together to develop an innovative solar roof for the motor vehicle industry. The system, which inconspicuously integrates solar cells into the sunroof, activates the cooling of the vehicle when driving or parked. It lowers the temperature in the car interior by up to 50%, making an important contribution to the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Focus on research in industryThe research projects being conducted at the university and scientific institutes in Rostock range from automation engineering and automotive lightweighting to the design of electric and hybrid vehicles and the improvement of en-gine efficiency. Other areas of focus include the reduction of emissions and the development of alternative fuels. To achieve these aims, all energy and material systems used in automotive engineering, such as heating and air-con-ditioning technology and engine combustion, are being investigated, both theoretically and experimentally. At the Competence Center for Rural Mobility (Kompetenz-zentrum Ländliche Mobilität) of the University of Applied Sciences in Wismar, several research projects are investi-

gating solutions for the resource-efficient and environ- mentally friendly integration of public transport services and electric mobility in rural areas and tourist centers.

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in the fast lane with race cars from the coast The University of Applied Sciences in Stralsund has a “Baltic Racing Team” that is building its own race car in the context of an international competition. This project involves a successful cooperative relationship with the company Hör Technologie GmbH. Other fields of exper- tise include design, lightweight engineering, driving safety, and methods for analyzing exhaust gas, power efficiency, and tires. But even off the racetrack: road traffic accidents

In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, applied science and business practice go hand in hand. Smart solutions are developed in numerous cooperative projects with the state’s universities and research centers.

"I’ve been working as a test- development engineer at ml&s GmbH & Co. KG since June 2013 and am involved in the ‘in-circuit test’ process. My responsibilities range from the development of test programs to the monitoring of testing during the pro-duction process. I’ve been fascinated with scientific concepts since my electrical engineering studies in my home city of Rostock. After a year of commuting, I moved to Greifswald. In addition to my work, I also enjoy the city, with all its amenities and the Museum Harbor."

Antje BauermeisterEngineering Test Development ml&s GmbH & Co. KG

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are still an unfortunate daily reality. In order to minimize their numbers and the resulting injuries, researchers at the University of Greifswald are investigating the effectiveness of occupant-safety systems. Related issues include accident analysis for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, specific car- accident injuries, and optimal post-accident care.

A healthy balanceMecklenburg-Vorpommern will continue to strengthen its research and development efforts with the help of EU funds during the 2014 to 2020 funding period. An increasing number of skilled professionals are relocating to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, attracted by the well- funded research projects involving collaboration with innovative compa- nies and by the state’s comprehensive network of childcare facilities. In turn, this highly skilled workforce is attracting further companies in-terested in taking advantage of the excellent conditions. And last but not least, the magnificent nature, international cultural highlights, and wide variety of recreational opportunities promote a healthy work-life bal- ance for people from the automotive region of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

The “Baltic Racing Team” from Stralsund has been taking part in the world’s largest student-engineering competition “Formula Student” since 1999.

Team players: research and industry

Invest in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern GmbH is the economic develop-ment agency for the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. As a “one-stop agency,” we are a valuable partner for any company interested in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern as an investment location. Our experts offer you comprehensive project-management and support services, ranging from site analysis to the implementation of the investment project.

We support you in your search for qualified employees and suitable sites in the state, act as your representative with public authorities and institu-tions, and organize contacts to potential business partners and networks.

Invest sustainably in a region that serves as a hub for global markets. Profit from the ideal location between the metropolitan areas of Ham-burg and Berlin.

Invest in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern offers valuable assistance to start-ups and established companies looking to relocate or expand to the state. Find out more about the investment opportunities in our state and take advantage of our expertise. Our services are free of charge.

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We Do Everything Possible: For You – For Our State

We look forward to hearing from you!Invest in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern will provide you with the information you need to find relevant funding and support.

Michael Sturm | Managing Director

ContactUlf Riedel | Team LeaderTel.: +49 (385) 59 2 25 - 32Mobile: +49 (171) 559 44 91E-mail: riedel@invest-in-mv.deInternet: www.invest-in-mv.de

As a “one-stop agency,” we are a valu- able partner for any company interested in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern as an investment location.

In 2006, the automotive suppliers in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern joined together to form the network automotive-mv e. V. This network pools the expertise of its members, particularly small and medium-sized companies, e. g. for joint bidding strategies and mutual support with training and qual- ification programs.The network facilitates the effective exchange of experience and best prac-tice, which helps increase the competitiveness of suppliers in northeastern Germany on a long-term basis. Professionals work together in working groups and workshops in order to profit from one another and forge new paths. The network automotive-mv e. V. is a member of the Automotive Clu-ster of East Germany (ACOD). The ACOD is made up of automobile manu-facturers with operations in Eastern Germany – BMW, Daimler, Opel, VW,

and Porsche – as well as a large number of suppliers. automotive-mv also regularly attends important trade fairs, such as IAA in Frankfurt or the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfsburg.

Contact for automotive-mv e. V.Dr. Andreas VietinghoffNetwork ManagerTel.: +49 (381) 45 52 23E-mail: a.vietinghoff@refa-mv.de

"Innovation, productivity, and quality are the cor-nerstones of the automotive supply industry in the northern part of eastern Germany. The exceptional-ly well-trained, highly motivated workers are deeply committed to their employers and the region. Efficient network structures linking the industry with universities and scientific institutions give the state a solid basis for high competitiveness and growth potential for industrial value creation. Outstanding logistics infrastructures with direct access to international markets are essential building blocks for the success of new and expanding businesses and for the strengthening of existing industry structures. To help shape the future of transportation, the state government is working to promote this growth sector by supporting investors and cooperating closely with industry and science. Webasto and many other companies are focusing successfully on these opportunities with the automotive-supplier network auto-motive-mv."

Dr. Andreas DikowManaging Director, Webasto Neubrandenburg GmbHBoard Chairman, automotive-mv e. V.

The MV Automotive Network

ImprintInvest in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern GmbHSchlossgartenallee 15, 19061 Schwerin, GermanyTel.: +49 (385) 59 2 25 - 0Fax: +49 (385) 59 2 25 - 22E-mail: info@invest-in-mv.deInternet: www.invest-in-mv.deDatabase of commercial sites: www.investguide-mv.de

Publisher: Invest in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern GmbH, Michael Sturm (Managing Director)Photos: Title: Nico Pudimat – www.pudimat-fotografie.de; Portrait Harry Glawe: Ministry of Economics, Construction, and Tourism, p. 1 shutterstock©pixelman; p. 2 Fotolia©VladimirKramin, Fotolia©kalafoto; p. 3 moe4; p. 4/1 moe4, 4/2 Webasto, 4/3 Fotolia©Deymos.HR/Webasto; p. 5/1 Oberaigner Automotive GmbH, 5/2 TRW, 5/3 moe4; p. 6 moe4; p. 7/1/3/4 moe4, 7/2 FOX©Sven Georg, p. 8 moe4; p. 9/1 Webasto Neubrandenburg GmbH, 9/2 moe4, 9/3 A. VietinghoffConcept & Design: fachwerkler – Konzeption und Grafikdesign GbR, www.fachwerkler-grafik.deEditing: Kathrin IllnerLegally responsible for content: Michael Sturm, Managing Director of Invest in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern GmbHDr. Stefan Rudolph, Chairman of the Shareholders’ Meeting Invest in MV

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