2 minute read - 25th January 2024
Kautex Unipart passes production milestone in 25th year
Kautex Unipart, a joint venture between Unipart Group and German partner Kautex Textron, has produced its 12.3 millionth plastic fuel tank at its state-of-the-art production line in Coventry. It marks what the company says has been a hugely successful 25 years that has seen it push the boundaries of innovation and provide its solutions to several global car manufacturers.
State-of-the-art fuel tanks have been manufactured for 19 different vehicle models since 1998, with £50m invested in the latest robotic cells, world-class finishing stations and industry-leading traceability.
An event was held in Coventry to celebrate its 25th birthday, where all 122 members of staff at Kautex Unipart were praised for their commitment to the joint venture – with 70 staff having worked at the joint venture for 15 years or more. Management teams reviewed the firm’s key achievements at the event, which included the recent production milestone, and the way the company supports STEM and the next generation of engineers. The company also said introducing new technology is firmly on the agenda, with plans unveiled for the next generation of fuel tanks that will offer enhanced weight savings and performance.
Kautex Unipart Coventry has celebrated its 25th anniversary hitting a production milestone of over 12 million plastic fuel tanks / Picture: Kautex Unipart
John Neill, executive chairman of Unipart Group, said: “During the last 25 years, our partnership with Kautex has grown ever stronger, as we develop new products to meet the challenging requirements of the automotive industry, an industry that continues to demand greater innovation, competitiveness, quality, and delivery. The strength of this relationship goes well beyond the board. In fact, colleagues from both our companies work together to keep us at the forefront of fuel tank technologies and advanced manufacturing. Congratulations to everyone involved in achieving this important milestone. We now look forward to developing future solutions to meet the fast-changing needs of the automotive sector.”
Joerg Rautenstrauch, CEO of Kautex Textron, added: “The 25-year anniversary celebration of our joint venture is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of Unipart and Kautex. In that time, we’ve faced challenges and triumphs, weathered storms and celebrated wins. Through it all, our employees have demonstrated resilience, adaptability and the willingness to embrace change. Congratulations to the entire team for this significant milestone.”
