Volvo Car Gent Expands Workforce to Meet Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles
Volvo Car gent, one of the core locations for Volvo’s production, is gearing up for a meaningful expansion. With 6,400 employees already on board, the company has launched a robust recruitment campaign in collaboration with Randstad, aiming to hire around 350 new operators. This move comes as the Ghent factory prepares to ramp up production, especially for the highly anticipated Volvo EX30, Europe’s third best-selling electric car.
The Ghent factory, a cornerstone of Volvo’s global operations, experienced a 19% dip in production volume last year, with 186,313 cars produced compared to 230,527 in 2023. This decline was attributed to a combination of factors,including a slowdown in electric vehicle sales and the extensive readiness required for the new production line. However, the company is optimistic about the future. “Good news for the ghent car manufacturer, who has had a transition year with relatively low production capacity,” the report states.
The introduction of the economy in terms of electrification of vehicles and innovative production processes.”
The EX30 model represents a significant step forward for the region, combining environmental sustainability with cutting-edge technology. This initiative not only promises to create hundreds of new jobs but also positions Flanders as a leader in the electrification of vehicles and advanced manufacturing techniques.| Key Points | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Job Losses | 400 employees in Oudenaarde, 270 in Aalst |
| recruitment Focus | Technically skilled people with a positive attitude |
| Job Day Locations | Aalst, Sint-Niklaas, Deinze, Zele, Waregem |
| Government Support | Flemish government backing Volvo Car Gent |
| New Model | EX30, a climate-friendly car |
| Economic Impact | Hundreds of new jobs, strategic importance for Flemish economy |
The collaboration between Randstad, Volvo Car Gent, and the flemish government highlights a concerted effort to revitalize the labor market and drive economic growth through innovation and sustainability.
Interview with Volvo Car Gent: Expanding Workforce for Electric Vehicle Production
Editor: Volvo Car Gent has recently announced a important expansion of its workforce. Can you tell us more about this initiative?
Guest: Absolutely! At Volvo Car Gent, we’re thrilled to be expanding our team to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicles, particularly the highly anticipated Volvo EX30. With 6,400 employees already on board, we’ve launched a robust recruitment campaign in collaboration with Randstad to hire around 350 new operators. This expansion is essential as we prepare to ramp up production capacity and solidify our position as a leader in the automotive industry.
Editor: Last year, the Ghent factory experienced a dip in production. What factors contributed to this, and how does the EX30 mark a turning point?
Guest: Indeed, 2023 was a transitional year for us. Our production volume dropped by 19%, with 186,313 cars produced compared to 230,527 in the previous year. This decline was due to a combination of factors, including a temporary slowdown in electric vehicle sales and the extensive readiness required for the new production line. Though, the launch of the EX30 marks a significant milestone.Starting this year, the Ghent facility will produce this popular electric model not only for the european market but also for global export. This will undoubtedly boost our production capacity and reaffirm our commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Editor: What types of roles are you looking to fill, and what’s the recruitment process like?
Guest: We’re seeking both starters and experienced candidates to fill 350 positions. Our recruitment drive began this week with the onboarding of 25 new employees. Randstad is organizing job days in Aalst, sint-Niklaas, Deinze, Zele, and Waregem to connect us with technically skilled individuals who have a positive attitude. This initiative underscores our dedication to strengthening our workforce and adapting to the evolving automotive landscape.
Editor: How is the Flemish government supporting this expansion?
Guest: We’re grateful for the support from the Flemish government, particularly from Prime Minister Matthias Diependaele (N-VA). The government is assisting us in training suitable personnel to expedite the production of the EX30. This collaboration not only ensures hundreds of new jobs but also highlights the strategic importance of this project for the growth of the Flemish economy. The EX30 represents a crucial step forward in the electrification of vehicles and the advancement of innovative production processes.
Editor: What impact do you expect this expansion to have on the local labor market and economy?
Guest: This expansion is a beacon of hope for the local labor market, especially amidst recent job losses in East Flanders, such as the closure of Belgium’s last chip manufacturer in Oudenaarde and the layoffs at Tupperware in Aalst. By creating hundreds of new jobs, we’re not only addressing unemployment but also positioning Flanders as a hub for cutting-edge automotive manufacturing. The EX30’s focus on environmental sustainability and advanced technology aligns perfectly with the region’s economic and ecological goals.
Conclusion
Volvo Car Gent’s workforce expansion and the launch of the EX30 electric vehicle signal a bright future for the Ghent factory and the Flemish economy. By combining innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships, Volvo Car Gent is reinforcing its role as a key player in the global automotive industry. For those seeking to join a dynamic and forward-thinking team, opportunities are now open.
