Bosch Strengthens EV Future Through Powertrain Innovation
Bosch's plant in České Budějovice, Czech Republic, has been at the heart of automotive innovation for over three decades.
Founded in May 1992 as a joint venture between Robert Bosch GmbH and Motor Jikov, the former assumed fully ownership in 1995.
Today, the facility showcases Bosch's dedication to advancing powertrain solutions, combining traditional manufacturing expertise with pioneering research and development.
Driving hydrogen and fuel cell innovation
Originally centred on mechanical engineering, the České Budějovice plant has evolved into a state-of-the-art facility, combining high-quality manufacturing with cutting-edge development capabilities.
This transformation aligns with Bosch's commitment to sustainable mobility, ensuring the plant stays ahead in an ever-changing automotive industry.
Amid a global push towards electrification, Bosch has positioned the České Budějovice site as a key player in hydrogen and fuel cell technology.
The facility is driving innovation in hydrogen production and application, drawing on decades of automotive expertise to support the transition to cleaner energy solutions.
A key initiative is the development of an advanced water treatment system for electrolysis, capable of processing even seawater, which was launched in 2024.
The plant is also advancing scalable electrolyser modules using Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Electrolysis (PEMEL) technology, with prototypes in testing and market introduction set for 2025.
Its commitment to sustainable mobility is reflected in ongoing efforts to expand electromobility and cut emissions.
Within two years, the facility aims to begin producing contact strips for electric vehicles, reinforcing its role in the shift to electric transport.
Additionally, its work on DNOX systems to lower nitrogen oxide emissions in diesel engines demonstrates Bosch's continued focus on minimising the environmental impact of conventional powertrains.
Investment in the future manufacturing workforce
Bosch's investment in the České Budějovice plant goes beyond technology, focusing on infrastructure and workforce development.
In 2022, a new three-storey office and laboratory building was opened, offering cutting-edge facilities for research and quality management.
Equipped with advanced control rooms to regulate temperature and reduce vibrations, the building ensures optimal conditions for precise testing and calibration.
Modern, well-lit office spaces create a productive environment, supporting collaboration and innovation.
The plant employs over 3,500 people, with at least 700 specialising in development, reinforcing its role as a hub for technological advancement.
The strong focus on research and development highlights Bosch's commitment to staying at the forefront of electrified powertrain solutions.
The facility actively partners with universities and runs programmes for students, recognising that nurturing talent is key to shaping the future of mobility.
Bosch's České Budějovice plant stands as a testament to the company's vision for sustainable transport.
With its strategic shift towards electromobility, advancements in hydrogen and fuel cell technology and continuous investment in infrastructure and talent, the plant is well-placed to drive innovation in the evolving automotive landscape.
"Shaping the digital future of Bosch Mobility: Successful go-live of SAP S/4HANA and BMLP in Budweis!," wrote Volker Schilling, CFO and Board Member of Bosch Mobility, on LinkedIn.
"You remember from recent posts that our plant in Budweis, Czech Republic was preparing for a major upgrade in the IT systems: the combined migration to SAP #S4HANA and introduction of BMLP (Bosch Manufacturing Logistics Platform).
"Meanwhile, the go-live happened as planned, and more than 100 production lines were successfully upgraded to the new IT systems. Therefore, it was time for a follow-up visit to Budweis to see these systems in operation and I did so last week together with the IT project team."
Volker went on to praise the integration of SAP's solutions at the facility, highlighting the importance of teamwork and future of scaling digital solutions.
"During the line walks, I was impressed by the seamless integration of the new solutions into the shopfloor. Only two months after go-live, productivity has almost reached the target level," he wrote.
"Congratulations to the project team which developed, rolled out and locally supported this highly-complex IT project. Big thanks to the whole team for making it a remarkable success!
"The local team in Budweis also demonstrated several new AI solutions, e.g. for automated, optical weld seam inspection applying neural networks, or an AI-based cloud solution for anomaly detection of assembly processes.
"I’m looking forward to seeing the scaling of these solutions as a major productivity boost to operations of Bosch!"
Klaus Maeder, COO at Bosch Mobility Solutions, also wrote on LinkedIn. "As the pilot location, Budweis is instrumental in shaping the future of our digital operations landscape.
"As Budweis leads the way, their success is crucial to setting the standard for our global plant rollout! We recently began training core experts in Budweis on the newly established BMLP. In turn, these experts will gradually educate 700 users at the Budweis plant.
"By standardising our processes across all Bosch Mobility facilities, the platform will enable us to harness the full potential of digital technologies and make our operations more efficient and agile.
"BMLP is part of our commitment to empowering our workforce with cutting-edge knowledge and tools. It underscores our commitment to being a leader in innovation and operational excellence by proactively integrating technological advancements into our digitalisation strategy for manufacturing and logistics.
"I want to express my gratitude to our dedicated team in Budweis for their efforts as the pilot plant."
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