Volvo Cars is expanding its vehicle manufacturing operation in Košice, Slovakia. The company placed an order with Idra Srl for the supply of two 9,000 tons giga-casting press machines for the production of aluminum components, which will position the company’s Košice plant as a strategic hub for giga-cast components. Volvo is among a number of other car manufacturers that are investing in giga-casting or mega-casting technology globally.
The 9,000 ton giga-press is among the largest die casting machines in Europe, representing a remarkable leap forward in automotive manufacturing technology. This cutting-edge equipment will enable the production of complex and lightweight vehicle components with precision and efficiency, paving the way for enhanced vehicle performance and safety. These large castings reduce the amount of components that need to be joined together, which helps to reduce vehicle weight.
Furthermore, this collaboration underscores Volvo’s commitment to sustainability in European manufacturing. The giga-casting process is said to be inherently eco-friendly, reducing waste and energy consumption — which perfectly aligns with the company’s dedication to sustainable practices.
Idra’s innovative development of giga-presses represents a pivotal role in revolutionizing automotive manufacturing. The company’s expertise and forward-thinking approach have been instrumental in the development and implementation of the giga-press technology.
This collaboration with Volvo exemplifies Idra’s dedication to driving progress in the industry and highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving shared goals. The cooperation between the two companies, as well as the support of local stakeholders in Slovakia, has been key to the project’s progress. Together, Volvo and Idra are forging the path to a more sustainable and technologically advanced future for European automotive manufacturing.