Technology

The Safety Testing and Safety Assurance business unit provides metrology, vehicle testing, prototype analysis and component and material testing services. 

The main task in metrology is to ensure the quality of pre-series vehicles, particularly in terms of their test capability and operational safety. We are also independently responsible for the development, construction and operation of innovative inline and offline test systems, such as those for joints, surfaces, hardness or material defects. 

For example, welded connections and joints are tested for strength by ultrasound in the body shop. During assembly, any deviations are documented and analysed so that the shutdown processes of the pre-series centre can be initiated 

Finally, an acceptance driving test is carried out in order to evaluate all safety-related systems and all vehicle functions. To ensure the quality of purchased parts, we also carry out sampling processes, start-up protection and module testing. We do this for driver assistance systems and infotainment systems (connectivity – mobile online services) in pre-series vehicles, for example. As part of the vehicle commissioning process, we also update the software versions (flashing) in the installed ECUs, whereby this includes vehicle analysis and diagnostics for new electric vehicles

The Component Assembly business unit handles the assembly of chassis modules for many different customer vehicles (such as the Golf, Tiguan, Passat, Arteon, etc.). We oversee axle assembly in line with the JIS (just-in-sequence) principle. Our comprehensive range of services include chassis assembly, quality assurance and control, and scheduling and logistics planning. In terms of electric mobility, the complete MEB axle assembly for the ID model family (which includes ID.3 and ID.4) is handled by Volkswagen Group Services GmbH. 

For plant technology and maintenance, we manage the operation, troubleshooting and servicing of fully automated production and logistics facilities as well as the maintenance of the respective hall infrastructure. 

With regard to additive manufacturing (3D printing) and machining, we use high-quality technology to manufacture, among other things, production tools, spare parts and prototypes for components testing, and we also complete special orders placed by customers. 

Production and Automation Technology includes the implementation of planning, control, design and simulation tasks for car-body plant engineering or for component parts and assemblies. In recent years, a reliable partner for Volkswagen toolmaking has been established through interdisciplinary expertise and the use of planning, calculation, design, simulation and control software in line with Group standards. 

Coupled with efficient planning and project management, we provide a relevant portion of development-related services along the value chain in connection with new production facilities: from project management, planning and design via the “digital factory” to the commissioning of production facilities all over the world. 

At the Special Vehicle Manufacturing business unit, we are responsible for the conversion of the T6 California into a recreational vehicle within the framework of pre-assembly and vehicle assembly operations. This also involves extension and conversion work on custom-built vehicles. 

Our portfolio also includes extensions, painting and foil application for special vehicles such as police cars, postal vehicles and taxis.  

In addition, we manage a range of vehicle preparation services – such as smart repair, paint jobs and dent removal – for leasing vehicles, new vehicles and company cars. Regardless of what we do, we always seek to achieve the highest level of quality for our customers.  

We also serve as a brand ambassador for historical vintage Volkswagen commercial vehicles (Heritage) at auto shows and other events.

Technical Documentation creates workshop information media and conducts working-time analyses, thereby ensuring the quality of technical repairs in service centres around the world. Our tasks include the technical editing of log books, repair guides and circuit diagrams and the creation of graphics for service centre and customer literature. 

In addition, we conduct technical and non-technical training courses for service centre staff and importers worldwide. Participants acquire specialist knowledge through demonstrations on a digital twin of a vehicle, which is disassembled virtually in order to simulate the work steps. 

Using innovative technology, we play our part in developing and designing the future in the Technical Development business unit. As a reliable and professional partner with a high level of expertise, we are responsible for the development of the battery systems for the electric vehicles of the Volkswagen Group. Our focus is mainly on the mechanical design and advance development of battery systems as well as software and hardware development for ECUs. We are also responsible for developing technology for the production of battery systems, and for issues relating to product-creation processes – for example change management and releases. 

In steering development, we develop software modules and software codes and create test specifications for steering functions. We conduct software tests in steering development and process test orders for release recommendations. In addition, we work in change management and the series support of steering components in parallel with development. 

Virtual vehicle development includes the provision of calculation and simulation services across locations and brands. This refers to the virtual functional design of complete vehicles as well as other elements such as bodywork and platforms, along with support for testing prototypes and axle sub-frames. Our portfolio includes structural crashes (front, rear, and side impacts, roof crushing) and occupant protection, as well as dynamic ground clearance simulation and unit simulation. 

As part our virtual vehicle development activities, we also operate the visualisation centre for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Virtual installation and expansion studies for reachability analyses are carried out using a virtual mock-up and 3D glasses. Thanks to our own independent development and the use of highly innovative virtual reality technology, we are able to offer our customers superlative quality with the shortest possible processing time. 

The portfolio of the Testing & Development Services business unit includes the development, operation and calibration of test benches, development and approval measurements, as well as other development services.  

Our range of services extends from test definition and implementation to evaluation in the following areas of expertise:  

• Combustion engines and engine components  
• ECU diagnostics / Dante / IT security  
• Brake performance, homologation for particulates  
• Battery cells  
• RDE approval and development test runs  
• Fuels, eFuels / ReFuels / synFuels  
• Chemicals management  
• Development of processes, models and standards  

In addition, as part of development activities, test benches are managed and supported in engineering and operations, as well as in connection with accompanying services, such as calibration or coordination