The Katowice Special Economic Zone drives the Polish automotive sector

Silesia, a region in southwestern Poland, has long been famous for its industry. Already in the mid-18th century, the region became an economic power thanks to the developing mining and smelting of coal, and due to the government’s plans to gradually discontinue coal mining, rich copper ore resources in Silesia, the seventh largest in the world, give Poland a foothold in the electromobility industry. In fact, Silesia is also the base of the largest production of lithium-ion batteries in Europe, and the combination of these advantages places Poland in the top ten largest exporters of automotive components in the world. In total, the automotive industry generates 8% of Polish GDP and approximately 13.5% of the country’s export value, according to data from the Polish Investment and Trade Agency,

The Katowice Special Economic Zone (KSEZ), centered around Upper Silesia, Katowice, was established in 1996 as one of fourteen economic zones in Poland and covers over half of the incoming investments from the automotive industry. For example, at the end of 2023, the Chinese company Sanhua Automotive announced an investment in Tychy for EUR 37-48 million, aimed at building a factory producing components of thermal management systems for new energy vehicles.

Offering tax breaks of up to 30% for large enterprises and an additional 10-20% relief for small and medium-sized enterprises, KSSE is also welcoming automotive supply chain investors from South Korea and Japan: SK IE Technology, part of SK Group, completed its first in 2021 lithium-ion battery separator factory in Dąbrowa Górnicza near Katowice. With the planned commissioning of the fourth factory by the end of 2024, the plant will be the company’s largest separator production plant in Europe. The Japanese NGK group also launched ceramics production in Gliwice as part of a greenfield investment in 2003.

In addition to foreign investors, the region also has its leaders in the automotive supply chain. AIUT, also based in Gliwice, is one of the key players in the Polish automotive supply chain, as well as the largest Polish integrator of industrial automation systems with entirely Polish capital. The company specializes in the design and turnkey implementation of robotic production lines and workstations, control systems, industrial electrical systems and automated material storage and transport systems. Its clients include the largest car manufacturers such as BMW, Volkswagen and Toyota, and also has branches in Germany, China, United States, India and Romania. In 2023, AIUT’s sales reached $100 million and the number of employees increased to over 1,000.

According to AIUT, automatic storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) have transformed the operation of warehouses and distribution centers, revolutionizing the way companies deal with growing order volumes and meet increased customer expectations. To remain competitive, companies recognize the need to adopt fully automated warehouse models. These modern solutions increase operational efficiency, maximize the use of warehouse space and enable effective execution of larger order volumes.

AIUT is a leader in both advanced Industry 4.0 solutions and the creation of automated robotic workstations and production lines. In Industry 4.0, AIUT is focused on digitizing automation processes through virtual actuation, using digital twins to simulate operations and efficiently manage tasks such as order processing and production planning. Additionally, AIUT designs and implements electrical works, automation systems and production management solutions, ensuring smooth integration and comprehensive service delivery.

Creating automated robotic workstations and production lines, AIUT works closely with clients to develop detailed project plans and thoroughly analyze solution concepts. They use computer simulations to ensure error-free implementation of robotic workstations, supporting customers throughout the lifecycle with flexible warranties and ongoing service. AIUT solutions include cutting-edge technologies, including linear drives, pneumatic actuators, servo drives and industrial robots from the best manufacturers from around the world.

Silesia is an example of a thriving center of the Polish automotive industry, characterized by a rich industrial heritage and a strategic position in the area of ​​electromobility. With Europe’s largest lithium-ion battery production and the Katowice Special Economic Zone attracting significant foreign investment, the region is thriving on innovation and strategic growth initiatives. Local leaders like AIUT are leading the way in advancing Industry 4.0 technologies, increasing operational efficiency and strengthening Silesia’s reputation as a global center of excellence in the automotive industry. This convergence of resources, infrastructure and technological capabilities ensures Silesia’s continued position in shaping the future of automotive production and innovation around the world.