Dürr receives order worth DM 100 million from VW Mexico Investment to improve quality, environmental protection and efficiency

04/03/2001

The Paint Systems Business Unit of Dürr AG, Stuttgart, has received an order worth approximately DM 100 million (Euro 51.1 mio.) for a new top-coat line and other modernisation measures for the Mexican Volkswagen factory at Puebla. VW's new paint shop, which will have a daily capacity of 600 bodies and replace an existing plant, represents investment to improve quality, environmental protection and efficiency.The turnkey contract covers all plant and equipment, including low emission paint application equipment for water-based paints and material handling systems and incorporates a number of innovative components. New process sequences, e.g. a wash line prior to top coat ensures the highest of quality standards and a minimum of touch-up. A new "cold" drying method makes it possible to lower energy costs considerably whilst increasing process safety. Recycling systems reduce both fresh water consumption and waste water production. The Dürr EMOS SM control system uses the most modern software to facilitate easy operation of all process stages and to ensure the best possible overall control. Commissioning is scheduled for early in 2002.The contract will be executed jointly by Dürr Group companies in Mexico and Germany.The Dürr technology group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of production systems and manufacturing support services for the automotive industry and its component suppliers. Six business units: Paint Systems, Automotion, Environmental, Protecs, Services and INTX operate under the aegis of the strategic management holding company Dürr AG, and Carl Schenck AG, with operations in over 20 countries around the globe.Preliminary figures for Dürr AG, including acquisitions, indicate that during the financial year 2000 sales increased by 54% to Euro 1,9 bn. while earnings rose by a double-digit percentage. Dürr will present its Annual Report and Accounts for the year 2000 at a press conference to be held in Stuttgart on 17 April 2001.