The Staff Magazine of the ElringKlinger Group 20
COVER STORY: JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19 Strong together
GROUP Production begins in Qingdao
TECHNOLOGY Joint Venture EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies
PEOPLE EKDrive High Potential Programm
INTRODUCTION 03 EDITORIAL
Dear Members of Staff,
the COVID-19 pandemic continues to keep the world in suspense – as yet with no end in sight. We at ElringKlinger were quick to respond by introducing a number of comprehensive measures. relate to our promising business activities in the field of fuel cell technology: we will be teaming up with Airbus as a strategic partner In doing so, we succeeded in counteracting for the purpose of shaping the future of air the spread of the coronavirus within our travel in a sustainable manner. Additionally, workforce. On a less positive note, we have we have established a joint venture with not been immune to the economic fallout Plastic Omnium by the name of EKPO Fuel from the pandemic. These are difficult times Cell Technologies. The following pages include for ElringKlinger. The longer the pandemic further insights into these transactions and lasts, the greater the financial impact on our other exciting topics. business is likely to be. I hope you enjoy reading the latest issue It is imperative that we all pull together as a of . team in this current situation. Together we will persevere. Under the heading “#oneEK – strong together,” we have put down a marker Stay safe! that illustrates our commitment to global unity at ElringKlinger. We must not lose heart – instead, we must look to the future with a sense of optimism. If we do so, we stand every chance of overcoming this crisis too.
Undaunted by the current situation, we have taken several key decisions that will help to determine the future of ElringKlinger. These
In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.
ALBERT EINSTEIN
20 04 INTRODUCTION CONTENT
10 Cover Story: Joint action against COVID-19 Strong together
06 GROUP
06 News ticker 18 Social responsibility 26 115th Annual General Meeting Donations to hospitals AGM goes virtual for first time 08 Awards 19 Information platform 28 Let’s go digital 09 Five questions for… COVID-19 update Virtual trade shows and events on the up 10 Strong together 20 Information security & Joint action against COVID-19 data protection 29 Intranet relaunch New Intranet ready to go 12 COVID-19 prevention What does… a CISO actually do? Anti-coronavirus measures 30 Cylinder-Head Gaskets/ at ElringKlinger 22 ElringKlinger Operating System Specialty Gaskets EKOS Belt Organization 16 Stories from the home office Fit for the future: new business unit 4M What’s it like working from home? 24 ElringKlinger Engineered Plastics Production begins in Qingdao
20 INTRODUCTION 05 CONTENT
34 Lifting fuel cell technology together to the next level Joint Venture EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies
32 ElringKlinger enters aviation market Partnership with Airbus
32 42 50 TECHNOLOGY PEOPLE OUTLOOK
32 Partnership with Airbus 42 EKDrive 50 Facts & figures ElringKlinger enters aviation market High Potential Programm Driving the right people in the 52 Event ticker 34 Joint Venture right direction at the right time 53 Imprint EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies 44 ElringKlinger Engineered Plastics Lifting fuel cell technology together to the next level Open day for EKTC
40 Sponsorship 46 Home office guide Cleaning up: hydrogen- Hints and tips for working productively powered motorsport 48 Changchun ElringKlinger Ltd. Health and safety in Changchun
20 06 GROUP NEWS TICKER News ticker PEOPLE New CIO
EARLY CONTRACT Stephan Gemm was appointed Vice President IT/Chief Information Officer (CIO) at EXTENSION FOR COO ElringKlinger on April 1, 2020. In this role, he is responsible for the Corporate Units Operational IT (CU-3I) and Strategic IT (CU-3SI). REINER DREWS
At its meeting in May 2020, the Supervisory Board PERSONNEL CHANGES IN of ElringKlinger AG extended the contract of BUSINESS UNIT 2B AND HPP Chief Operating Officer Reiner Drews earlier than originally scheduled – by five years to March 31, Gunnar Deichmann took over as Vice President of the Battery Technology & E-Mobility Business Unit 2026. He has been a member of the Management on October 1, 2020. Ulrich Sauter was appointed Director Product Engineering in BU-2B with effect Board since April 1, 2018. His current mandate from June 1, 2020. Jürgen Weingärtner has taken over his previous position as General Manager at runs until March 31, 2021. hofer powertrain products GmbH, alongside his existing role.
MARKO DREWS TAKES OVER AS MANAGER OF RUNKEL PLANT LENNINGEN PLANT UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT With effect from July 1, 2020, Marko Drews has taken over as manager of the Mark Fellmann took over as manager of the Runkel site on October 26, 2020. Lenningen site alongside his role as CU-2TT Tooling Manager. He will also manage the Langenzenn site until further notice.
ORGANIZATION NEW SITE IN NEUFFEN
In its quest for additional production and
Funding Management office space, ElringKlinger has found the assigned to perfect site in Neuffen. A long-term lease new department has been signed for the former Bielomatik
With effect from April 1, 2020, the Funding Management premises from January 2021. Business department at ElringKlinger AG has moved from BU-2FF to CU-1SF. This underlines the fact that the services of Unit 2B (excluding plant 2B Dettingen) the Funding Management department are available to all and prototyping in Business Unit 2D corporate divisions worldwide. The planning and implementation of publicly funded projects is coordinated will move to Neuffen in January 2021. by Dr. Stefan Hornauer (Director Funding Management) Frank Schaible took over as Plant Manager and his team. in Neuffen on December 1, 2020.
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 07 NEWS TICKER
NEW SALES On June 1, 2020, the Sales unit (CU-1S) formed Sales Product Line, DEPARTMENT: a new department that now also encompasses Business Development. This step brings technical acquisition, its associated business SALES development, and key account organization into one department PRODUCT LINE for batteries, fuel cells, and drivetrains.
COMPANY
Snowmobile equipped with fuel cell stack FUEL CELLS from ElringKlinger EXCEED The Lynx HySnow is the first zero-emission EXPECTATIONS snowmobile powered by an electric drive with fuel cells. ElringKlinger was a partner in IN GIANTLEAP this development project and equipped PROJECT the concept vehicle with a fuel cell stack on the NM5 platform.
ElringKlinger’s fuel cell stacks have achieved outstanding results as part of the EU-spon- sored GiantLeap project. The stacks were fitted as range extenders to a full-electric bus of the Dutch bus manufacturer VDL Bus & Coach and tested in real traffic conditions. The final report states: “The overall performance of the system exceeded expectations. [...] ElringKlinger stacks used in GiantLeap displayed an excellent performance through- out the project.”
ElringKlinger and VDL agree fuel cell partnership
ElringKlinger and Dutch vehicle manufacturer VDL Bus & Coach BV have agreed a strategic partnership in the area of fuel cell technology. The cooperation agreement aims to develop fuel cell stacks and systems for mobile and stationary applications and make them ready for series production. When the initial cooper- ation agreement runs out in 2021, it will be followed by specific customer projects.
TO CONTENT 20 08 GROUP AWARDS
Rewarding a solid Awards performance.
EKIA HONORED WITH EKIA RECEIVES AWARD FOR EXCEPTIONAL SUPPLIER EKSA RECEIVES VOLVO'S QUALITY PERFORMANCE AWARD FROM EXCELLENCE AWARD GM ElringKlinger Automotive Components (India) Pvt., Ltd., (EKIA) Elring Klinger, S.A.U., (EKSA) ElringKlinger Automotive Components (India) Pvt., FCA & Tata Motors: Supplier Appreciation Award Volvo Cars: VQE Award Ltd., (EKIA)
GM India: Supplier The joint venture of Fiat Chrysler Auto- Elring Klinger, S.A.U., (EKSA) received the “Volvo Excellence Award motive (FCA) and Tata Motors presented Cars Quality Excellence Award.” The VQE Award ElringKlinger Automotive Components is presented to suppliers who best meet the For the third time in (India) Pvt., Ltd., (EKIA) with its “Supplier high quality standards of the Volvo Cars Group. total, General Motors Appreciation Award 2019.” This award To achieve and maintain VQE status, the produc- India presented its honors suppliers who consistently produce tion site must be among the best in the industry. “Supplier Excellence components without defect quantities or Production sites with VQE status are considered Award” to ElringKlinger warranty claims. The award was presented as suppliers of first choice for future business Automotive Compo- to EKIA for the second time in a row. with the Volvo Car Group. nents (India) Pvt., Ltd., (EKIA) in acknowl- edgement of a strong performance in 2019. Once again, EKIA ELRINGKLINGER Langer GmbH & Co. KG convinced the jury by HONORED AS meeting all General “2020 TOP NATIONAL Motors' quality and EMPLOYER” delivery requirements. AWARDS FOR The fact that no com- ElringKlinger AG TOP SUPPLIERS plaints were received Focus: OF 2019 during the year was Germany's best employers particularly impressive. ElringKlinger AG EKIA supplies various
In collaboration with Samsung C&T Deutschland GmbH and Samsung Precision components to several employer review platform Stainless Steel (Pinghu) Co., Ltd., Langer GmbH & Co. KG GM locations in India, kununu, FOCUS-Business Thailand, and Brazil. magazine published a ranking ElringKlinger honored its top suppliers of the 2019 of the best employers in financial year. Within the category encompassing Germany. ElringKlinger raw materials, Samsung C&T Deutschland GmbH in was ranked in 642nd place, collaboration with its Chinese affiliate Samsung making it one of the top Precision Stainless Steel (Pinghu) Co., Ltd., 1,000 employers in Germany. was ranked first. Yet again, Langer GmbH & Co. KG ElringKlinger was 33rd within came out on top within the components category. the “Automobile and Automo- This is the second time in a row that the supplier tive Supplier” category. from Illmensee showed its winning credentials.
Samsung C&T Deutschland GmbH and Samsung TO CONTENT Precision Stainless Steel (Pinghu) Co., Ltd. 20 GROUP 09 5 QUESTIONS FOR…
NEW TO THE ELRINGKLINGER MANAGEMENT TEAM 5 questions for…
Stephan Gemm
Vice President IT/Chief Information Officer since April 1, 2020.
What’s your best antidote to the daily grind? Family and friends. Spending time together, doing something together, enjoying shared hobbies... or simply sitting doing nothing together – that’s real luxury as far as I’m concerned.
I love this sport in particular... Mark Fellmann Motorsport. I really enjoy watching Formula 1 and the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters and I am a big fan Plant Manager in Langenzenn and, of the 24-hour races at Le Mans and the Nürburgring. since October 26, 2020, Plant Manager in Runkel. I also like tinkering with sports cars and taking part in track days, where I get a chance to sit behind the How would your friends describe you? wheel and test my own limits. To make sure I’d only get positive feedback, I passed this question onto a few of my good friends and got the following replies: straight-talking What superpower would you like to have? and honest, reliable (if not always punctual), down-to-earth, helpful, funny, Tricky question. I can think of a lot of powers that patient, ambitious, if he’s going to do something he’s going to do it right, could be fun. For my work, being able to time-travel optimistic, self-critical and reflective, can laugh at himself, fond of children, would definitely be a great help. IT is very fickle. Many a nature-lover, and a connoisseur of wine and good food. Of course, that trends come and go, some stick around. It’d definitely long list doesn’t say anything about my weaknesses, which I definitely be great if you could jump into the future a bit to see have. Although I probably come across as patient on the outside, inside what trends were proving long-lived so that you could I’m a very impatient person. focus on incorporating them at ElringKlinger in a profitable way. What hobby would you like to try one day? Playing the drums. Although I’m not really musical, I’ve always enjoyed Wadden Sea or Mediterranean? listening to music. Wadden Sea, no doubt about it. We enjoy spending I’d really like to visit this country... time by the North Sea and the Baltic. The water, the When I was at uni, my dream was to go cycling around Iceland. My countryside, and the people there are very special – children are currently five and seven, so a bike tour of Iceland is not on I could easily see myself living there too, one day. the cards for the time being, but it’s still a country that excites me. So Maybe when I retire? now I’d be keen on swapping the bike for an RV.
My favorite song at the moment... Who would you like to swap lives with for a day? Not an easy question either, because I really like Nobody, to be honest. I’m happy in my own skin. If you were to ask me listening to music, including from some very different who I’d like to spend a day with, I’d say Herbert Grönemeyer. Preferably styles. Seeed, a band from Berlin, provided a musical at a VfL Bochum game. backdrop to many of my activities last summer: on trips, in the car, playing sport. So I’d say Hale-Bopp This book from my school days has always stayed with me... by Seeed. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. I’ve never forgotten this quote from that book: “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” I really need to read it again.
TO CONTENT 20 10 GROUP JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
Our goal within the Management Board is to steer our Group through this crisis as effectively as possible. Your well-being is of paramount importance to us. First and foremost, we want all of you to remain healthy. The protection of our employees and their families is our top priority.
CEO DR. STEFAN WOLF
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 11 JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
#oneEK
STRONG TOGETHER
JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19, Joint action PART 1 against COVID-19
The coronavirus pandemic is still keeping the world in suspense. The past few weeks and months have seen a wide range of restrictions at a social and business level.
ElringKlinger has also been severely impacted by the pandemic and both the company and its employ- ees have been faced with a number of unprecedented challenges. In an effort to manage this crisis, we established a COVID-19 task force that has since been responsible for coordinating activities for all ElringKlinger sites around the globe. The focus of measures implemented to date has always been on safeguarding the health and safety of all employees within the Group.
Joint action against COVID-19: Under the heading "#oneEK – strong together" we have made a point of embracing the principles of solidarity and mutual support. In times of COVID-19 a sense of cohesion within the ElringKlinger team is as important as ever. This also applies in particular to those instances in which personal contact and direct dialogue with colleagues are limited due to social distancing regula- tions. Overcoming this crisis requires a concerted effort. Together we are strong.
Light at the end of the tunnel: the development of suitable vaccines and the commencement of vaccination programs have brought hope. However, the pandemic is far from over. We still have a long way to go on the road back to normality. With this in mind, it is essential that we continue to pull together, because every individual can make an important contribution to combating the virus. Every crisis eventually passes. This one will pass, too. We have achieved a great deal. Together, we will overcome this crisis.
TO CONTENT 20 12 GROUP JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
Nose-mouth cover Masks must be worn at work in those cases in which your distance to others is less that 1.5 meters.
COVID-19 PREVENTION
JOINT ACTION Anti-coronavirus AGAINST COVID-19, PART 2 measures at ElringKlinger
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 13 JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
#oneEK
Upon the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, ElringKlinger put
together a COVID-19 task force that has since been coordinating the
activities of all sites around the globe. In addition, local teams were
established for the purpose of providing support at the respective plants. A number of hygiene and protective measures were put in place in an effort to safeguard employees' well-being to the largest extent possible. The processes and practices developed are based on recom- mendations from expert organizations and government agencies as well as on the experience gained in dealing with this pandemic over the past weeks and months.
Monitoring at factory gate Measurement of body temperature and provision of nose-mouth masks for employees.
A number of hygiene and protective measures were put in place.
TO CONTENT 20 14 GROUP JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
Many thanks to all teams for their tireless JOINT ACTION efforts to protect the workforce and to AGAINST COVID-19, all employees for their commitment to the PART 2 implementation of these measures!
Disinfection at the workplace All meeting and common rooms are regularly disinfected.
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 15 JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
#oneEK
Information and communication Continuous communication about individual measures as notices on our bulletin boards as well as on the intranet and by e-mail.
Keep your distance The hygiene concept requires a safety distance of at least 1.5 meters. This also applies to company canteens.
Observe hygiene rules The regular washing of hands and the use of disinfectant are essential in times of COVID-19.
TO CONTENT 20 16 GROUP JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
Our CEO is running the business from home “My days are as busy as ever, but we all have to be flexible at the moment. Thank you for all your hard work and support in this tough time. We will get through it together,” says our CEO Dr. Stefan Wolf, who is also working from home.
How are team meetings held these days? The new normal – the weekly team meeting of the Marketing & Communications STORIES FROM THE HOME OFFICE department (CU-1M) is held via Skype.
JOINT ACTION AGAINST What’s COVID-19, PART 3 it like working from home?
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 17 JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
#oneEK
With the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the majority of
employees suddenly had to start working from home. This brought many
changes to their working lives and required them to display flexibility,
creativity, and organizational skills. How do our colleagues feel about the
situation? has collected some stories and pictures from their home
offices, providing a glimpse of working life in the Covid age.
Even the youngest are hard at work “Our whole family, all four of us, are working from home at the moment. The photo shows three of the four,” says Steffen Authaler (Director Sales Global Account, CU-1S), who is currently managing the family office.
Greetings from the Elring webinar The travel ban meant that Florian Kiziak (Technical Trainer, BU-1AT) could no longer run on-site training courses for customers. But he made the best of it and promptly turned his basement into a Bom dia do Brasil presentation room Eduardo Martins for holding webinars. (Regional Head of Sales, CU-1S) says hi from Brazil: “The photo shows me working in my home office, which I have set up on the balcony of my apart- ment. Opposite me, my wife is sitting at We will get a sewing machine making cloth masks through for use during the pandemic. Together it together. we are strong!”
CEO DR. STEFAN WOLF
TO CONTENT 20 18 GROUP JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
JOINT ACTION AGAINST Donations to COVID-19, PART 4 hospitals
When times are tough, we all pull together! At ElringKlinger, the motto “Stronger Together” lies at the heart of our company, and it also applies to our sense of social responsibility. During the first wave of the pandemic, ElringKlinger stepped up by suppling local hospitals with urgently needed face masks from the company’s own stocks. We were delighted that our donations could help hospitals and support doctors and nurses in their work.
Presenting the masks (L. to R.): Prof. Friedrich Pühringer, Medical Director, Dr. Hartwig Schwaibold, Chief Physician Urology, CEO Dr. Stefan Wolf, and Dominik Nusser, Director of Kreiskliniken Reutlingen
Our CEO Dr. Stefan Wolf handed over 8,000 FFP3 masks to Kreiskliniken Reutlingen, the association of hospitals in the Reutlingen district.
Another donation of masks went to Receiving the masks, Dominik Nusser, director the University Hospital in Tübingen. of Kreiskliniken Reutlingen said: “We’re delighted The masks were presented by Andreas to receive so many different donations at the The German Red Brändle, Vice President Corporate moment, and of course medical face masks are Cross in Pfullingen Marketing & Communications particularly welcome during the Covid crisis”. also received (left in the photo). 150 FFP2 protec- tive masks from ElringKlinger’s stock.
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 19 JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
#oneEK
Intra-company information via the COVID-19 platform set up on the intranet.
INFORMATION PLATFORM
JOINT ACTION AGAINST COVID-19, COVID-19 PART 5 update
The provision of information is essential, especially in times of COVID-19. The central point of contact for the supply of information within the company continues to be the COVID-19 platform set up on the intranet.
In addition to internal communications, it also contains document templates, manuals, FAQs, etc. relating to COVID-19. The information is continuously updated and adapted in line with the latest developments. In addition, all relevant news is also made available to the business unit managers by e-mail and posted on the bulletin boards. This keeps everyone up to date.
TO CONTENT 20 20 GROUP DATA PROTECTION
INFORMATION SECURITY & DATA PROTECTION What does… a CISO actually do?
Assigned to the 4Q corporate unit (Quality & Environment), Michael Hohl has been Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the ElringKlinger Group since June 2019. In this role, he is responsible for maintaining information security within the company and for ensuring that statutory data protection
requirements are implemented. Michael Hohl explains the most important terms and principles in the areas of information security and data protection.
What is a CISO and what does the role involve? questions, based on the ISO 27001 standard, have been CISO stands for Chief Information Security Officer, adapted to sector-specific questions by the German which essentially describes the role of the person Association of the Automotive Industry, or VDA. Today, with overall responsibility for information security many orders will only be placed when this certification and data protection in an organization. As the CISO has been obtained; after all, customers need to ensure for ElringKlinger, I am mainly accountable for setting that sensitive data is not lost because of weak points up, running, and refining the so-called information in supplier companies. security management system (ISMS). Working with IT departments to optimize IT security across the Group In this regard, ElringKlinger AG is already in a strong is a critical element in this context. At ElringKlinger, position: the two factories in Dettingen, the TTR park, the ISMS is linked to data protection management and the IT site in Reutlingen have been certified accord- and depicted in the process environment. In short, the ing to VDA-TISAX since December 2019. The same has system forms the basis for meeting both legal require- applied to the Gelting, Langenzenn, and Runkel facto- ments and customer needs. I also act as the central ries since summer 2020. ISO 27001 certification relating point of contact internally and support data protection to ElringKlinger’s headquarters in Dettingen is sched- officers in external groups. uled for the first quarter of 2021.
To whom does the CISO report at ElringKlinger? Why are information security and data protection becoming This role involves a dual path of reporting. On the one ever more important to ElringKlinger? hand, there is a direct reporting channel to CFO Thomas This is an area in which demands and requirements Jessulat, who is also responsible for IT, and to COO are becoming more stringent all the time. Modern-day Reiner Drews, who is responsible for the 4Q corporate customers rate ElringKlinger not just on the quality of unit. On the other hand, a steering committee comes our products; IT standards and information security also together on a quarterly basis to discuss overarching carry greater weight when they make a choice. Banks, issues relating to information security and data protec- auditors, and public authorities are also looking at these tion. Among the participants are the Vice Presidents areas in ever greater depth and detail. At the same time, from HR, Legal, Quality, and IT as well as the Group the expansion of Industry 4.0 applications in our pro- Data Protection Officer and the Chief Financial Officer. duction operations and more extensive networking have given rise to a new area in which we are developing What does VDA-TISAX mean and how is it relevant solutions aimed at upholding and continually adapting to ElringKlinger? the relevant security standards and specifications. With VDA-TISAX, or Trusted Information Security Assess- the rise in working from home, the number of attacks ment Exchange, is certification in the area of informa- has also risen exponentially. In future, everyone should tion security for the automobile industry. The check be more careful about which emails they open and
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 21 DATA PROTECTION
which ones are better deleted straight away. In this way, TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS every member of staff can play a part in improving the company’s overall information security. Never give passwords to colleagues or third parties. Use a different password for every application. This is the What is the difference between information security and only way to minimize damage in the event of loss or hacking. IT security? Always treat links and attachments in emails with caution. The aim of information security is to process, retain, Even familiar senders may have been victims of an attack, and convey information in such a way that the con- as a result of which they are unknowingly distributing malicious fidentiality, integrity, availability, and reliability of that files and software. If in doubt, the safest course of action is information is sufficiently safeguarded. This not only to contact IT. involves IT security; physical protection and organi- Phone calls requesting information must also be treated with zational regulations are also elements of information particular caution: the caller could be a fraud (‘voice phishing’). security.
IT security is about guaranteeing the security of all the information technologies we deploy, in other words all hardware systems, software systems, computer systems, network systems, and cloud solutions.
Where can people find more details on information security and data protection at ElringKlinger? The first port of call is the Intranet page Data Safety & Information Security, which they can navigate via the main services index on the home page. The latest news is shown here, along with answers to common questions on relevant issues. The main guidelines and specifi- Michael Hohl cations for everyday work are located in the process Chief Information Security Officer environment for management processes. (CISO) and Head of Digital Quality Processes & Services at ElringKlinger Facts & figures
4,500,000 450 Total quantity of emails (per month) participants in IT phishing awareness campaign of 2020. Participants were selected at random from 17 ElringKlinger Group plants worldwide. Result: After this training, there has been a significant improvement at these plants over the months. 1,000,000 Instantly blocked spam messages (per month) 4,051 Spam/malicious emails received, of which…
478 links to malicious web pages opened 149 150 Office files with viruses/malware opened Blocked viruses and malware (per day) 84 times data entered on fake login pages
TO CONTENT 20 22 GROUP EKOS
EKOS – ELRINGKLINGER OPERATING SYSTEM EKOS Belt Organization
The EKOS Belt Organization has been set up to help us meet the EKOS goal of
continuous improvement in every respect. The aim of the EKOS Belt Organization
is to train and familiarize staff with a range of methodologies and tools, such as
Lean Management and Six Sigma.
After completing their training, staff members become EKOS Initial sessions involve training CIP (Continuous Improve- Belts. In this role, they act as mentors and role models in ment Process) Managers, but specific training courses for pursuit of continuous improvement at ElringKlinger. They all staff will begin in 2021. After completing their training, thus become a key point of contact in their department or employees will be in a better position to tackle the issue of division and help their colleagues to put the principles they continuous improvement and to act as EKOS Practitioners have learned into practice in their daily work. This ensures within the company. that standard methods are used to tackle tasks and chal- lenges throughout the whole ElringKlinger organization.
With this in mind, the EKOS Belt Organization has set itself the following objectives:
Transparency in all processes Improved quality The training to become an “EKOS Belt” A systematic, structured, and reproducible approach offered by the EKOS Belt Organization has to problem-solving many advantages in our daily work. Not The EKOS Belt Organization involves different training only with regard to continuous improve- levels, and employees move from one to the next by completing EKOS Belt training courses. They are trained ment, but it also allows us to apply the at different levels (e.g., EKOS Practitioner, Lead EKOS Belt, new approaches we have learned to other etc.) depending on their particular area and job within the company. topics, projects, and tasks.
The first EKOS Belt Organization training sessions began in late November 2020. These training courses have been jointly developed by CU Training & Development and CU LENA REICHENECKER Production (Team ElringKlinger Operating System EKOS). CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT PROCESS MANAGER
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 23 EKOS
THE BELT ORGANIZATION
Represents the EKOS Belt Organization externally EKOS DIRECTOR Supports ongoing projects Removes potential project hurdles
Is responsible for the EKOS Belt Organization in a functional capacity Manages critical projects Trains, supports, and coaches EKOS Belts MASTER EKOS BELT COMPETENCES Coaching Strategic thinking Strong understanding of Six Sigma methods and their application Leadership skills
Manages projects and applies Lean Management and Six Sigma methods Trains EKOS Belts and EKOS Practitioners EKOS BELT SPONSOR Encourages the use of EKOS methods and tools within the organization Acts as project owner within the context of LEAD EKOS BELT COMPETENCES continuous improvement Value stream analysis Supports individual Trains EKOS Belts projects and provides ElringKlinger Operations Academy project capacities Optimizes set-up time Other Six Sigma methods
Manages projects within own area of responsibility Identifies and quantifies opportunities for improvement within own area of responsibility
COMPETENCES EKOS BELT Problem-solving methods (e.g., Six Sigma) EKOS basic methods (e.g., 5S, KAIZEN, problem-solving, etc.) Leadership skills and project management Avoidance of waste and overload (work smarter, not harder)
Identifies waste within own workspace and knows how to eliminate it Understands the different phases of problem-solving and applies them EKOS PRACTITIONER
COMPETENCES 8 types of waste Basics of problem-solving
TO CONTENT 20 24 GROUP ENGINEERED PLASTICS
ELRINGKLINGER ENGINEERED PLASTICS Production begins in Qingdao
ElringKlinger Engineered Plastics (ElringKlinger Can you tell us a bit about the production site? Kunststofftechnik) has had a site in the Chinese The building covers some 3,000 square meters city of Qingdao since 2008. Having started out in all, two-thirds of which are dedicated to pro- as a simple sales company, EKTC set up its own duction. We started out with a production team production line to serve the local market in 2019. of four and now have as many as 30 employ- EKTC’s General Manager Bo Sun reports on the ees. So far, we’ve operated a one-shift pattern. challenges faced in launching production and talks When we’ve had peaks in demand, such as in about the company’s objectives. the third quarter of last year, we’ve temporarily increased capacity to twelve hours a day. We’re currently building a Class 8 cleanroom to meet Mr. Sun, what factors influenced the decision to our customers’ requirements for medical tubes. set up your own production line in Qingdao? EKTC In our non-automotive business areas, it’s all What products are you already manufacturing on about short lead times and streamlined site? What ones will you be adding in the future? General Manager processes. To give you one example: In the We’ve worked on a large number of proto- Bo Sun reports mechanical engineering sector, the market types over the past two years, such as bellows, expects us to supply the first samples within spring-energized seals, piston rings, and other on production five days of being asked to quote. You can only turned parts. The first products we manufac- ramp-up. manage that if you’ve got a production team tured in large volumes in 2019 were piston on the ground. But we also want to get more seals and piston rings made from PTFE. We out of the benefits of local production for our hope to add medical tubes and bellows to our automotive customers in the future. production range in the second or third quarter of 2021. Engineered plastics is very much a diverse, fast-moving business, so we expand our production at short notice in line with what the market wants.
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 25 ENGINEERED PLASTICS
The commencement of production would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of EKTC staff members.
Production premises at our Qingdao site.
Bo Sun (left) with EKT General Manager Stefan Schmid at the grand opening. Who are your customers and what sectors How involved was the headquarters of are they in? ElringKlinger Engineered Plastics in the work? The Engineered Plastics division serves a total We always coordinate matters very closely with of 200 customers in Asia, while EKTC has EKT headquarters in Bietigheim-Bissingen around 100 active customers. They come from in order to define our strategic steps for the all manner of different industries. Besides Chinese and Asian markets, and we also liaised the automotive sector, the main ones include regularly on setting up production in Qingdao mechanical engineering, aerospace, medical during the development phase. Our team and life sciences, chemicals, and energy. The handled the interior fitout by themselves. A few vast majority of customers are local businesses. EKT colleagues were on site to provide support We’re already supplying five customers from just before we started production. our production line in Qingdao. What objectives have you set at EKTC What challenges did you face in launching for the coming years? production? Our main aim is to increase market share in the The biggest challenge was essentially one of various non-automotive sectors to a dispropor- coordinating timing: between securing cus- tionately high extent, underpinned strategically tomers for the first few orders and getting the by our production line in Qingdao. We’ve also investments signed off. Of course, the actual set some ambitious revenue targets in Asia for launch brought the usual challenges. To give the next few years. To achieve them, we’ll be you just a few examples: first of all, you have to stepping up our business development and find a suitable property to rent. Then you need sales operations for all Asian regions and align- to plan your production as far into the future as ing our research and development with local possible while also sourcing the right suppliers. market and customer requirements. Only twelve months passed between our first look round and when we moved in. That was quite an achievement, despite the manageable size of the operation.
TO CONTENT 20 26 GROUP ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
115TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AGM goes virtual for first time
Our Annual General Meeting for the financial year 2019 took place against the backdrop of excep- tional circumstances. Originally, the plan had been to host this event at the Stuttgart exhibition center, as the venue used in the past – the Liederhalle Culture and Congress Center – is undergoing refurbishment. However, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, we decided against a physical meeting and instead opted for a virtual AGM – a first for our company.
ElringKlinger shareholders were able to participate in the ment. As regards sales revenue, ElringKlinger managed to Annual General Meeting and cast their votes via an online grow by 1.6% to EUR 1.727 billion despite a global market portal. In addition, the entire event was streamed live using downturn of 5.6%. In the trendsetting areas of E-Mobility and this platform. As in the past, the speech by ElringKlinger's Lightweighting/Elastomer Technology, we increased our reve- CEO was freely accessible online for those interested. nues by more than 9% in each case. This clearly illustrates the demand for our products.” Our CEO Dr. Stefan Wolf outlined key developments relating to the financial year just ended: “2019 was not an easy year, but In each case, the proposals for resolutions put to the vote were we took important steps – and in a very challenging environ- accepted by the shareholders with a large majority. The AGM approved the actions of the Management Board and Supervi- sory Board with 97% of the votes respectively. The company's dividend for the 2019 financial year was suspended in view of our earnings situation and the COVID-19 crisis.
PERSONNEL CHANGES TO SUPERVISORY BOARD FOLLOWING ELECTIONS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER The Annual General Meeting in July 2020 included the sched- DR. STEFAN WOLF uled election of new Supervisory Board members appointed by the shareholders. In this context, Helmut P. Merch succeeded Prof. Hans Ulrich Sachs, who had left the Supervisory Board. All other shareholder representatives were re-elected. The members of the Supervisory Board appointed by our company's With its strong market position, its extensive product employees had been elected back in May 2020. As part of and process expertise, and its promising portfolio this process, Olcay Zeybek and Barbara Resch joined the within the field of battery and fuel cell technology, board for the first time. Olcay Zeybek replaced long-standing ElringKlinger is one of those companies that is capable Supervisory Board member Pasquale Formisano, who had of seizing opportunities despite all – even significant – announced that he would no longer be standing for election. challenges. Barbara Resch, as an elected union representative, took over from Nadine Boguslawski. All other employee representatives were re-elected.
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 27 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
New Supervisory Board members Helmut P. Merch Helmut P. Merch (born in 1956) has been employed within the Rheinmetall Group since 1982 and was appointed a member of the Management Board of Rheinmetall AG on January 1, 2013. There the graduate in Economics and Business Administration oversees the areas of finance and controlling. From the outset, he has held various management positions at subsidiaries, including divisional manager and Management Board member of the former mechanical engineering subsidiary Jagenberg AG and deputy CEO of the former electronics subsidiary Aditron AG. Since 2001, he has held the position of Chief Financial Officer of the Defense division.
Barbara Resch
Barbara Resch (born in 1975) began her career as an apprentice communi- cations electronics technician at Agfa in 1991. After successfully completing Olcay Zeybek her apprenticeship, she remained with the company until 2000, working Olcay Zeybek (born in 1967) joined what is now ElringKlinger as a laser printing specialist. Since AG in 1985, initially working in various production roles. He 2001, Barbara Resch has held various trained as an industrial clerk at the company between 1990 positions at IG Metall, a German trade and 1993. His financial management career at ElringKlinger union. Following roles as trade union began shortly afterward. Starting out as a Planning/Accounts secretary for IG Metall in Weilheim Receivable Administrator, he was appointed Team Leader for and IG Metall in Schweinfurt, she was Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable in 1995. Between appointed second authorized officer 1993 and 1995, Mr. Zeybek combined his work for the com- for IG Metall in Schweinfurt in August pany with a degree in business management from an Academy 2014. She assumed responsibility of Public Administration and Business (VWA) in order to for coordinating collective bargaining expand his knowledge in the commercial field. He has been for IG Metall in Bavaria in May 2016, Head of Accounting since 2002. going on to become Wage Affairs Secretary for IG Metall in Baden- Württemberg in November 2018.
SHAREHOLDER REPRESENTATIVES EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATIVE
THE SUPERVISORY BOARD Klaus Eberhardt, Chairperson of the Supervisory Board Armin Diez OF ELRINGKLINGER AG Rita Forst Paula Monteiro Munz Andreas Wilhelm Kraut Gerald Müller
Helmut P. Merch Barbara Resch
Gabriele Sons Markus Siegers
Manfred Strauß Olcay Zeybek
TO CONTENT 20 28 GROUP VIRTUAL TRADE SHOWS
Nexus Virtual Days 2020 The information day for apprentices and students 2020
Stahlgruber Exhibition 2020
VIRTUAL TRADE SHOWS AND EVENTS ON THE UP DHBW student information day 2020 Let’s go digital
Trade shows and other major The information day for apprentices and students that was filled with photos, company profiles and videos to events continue to be heavily is traditionally held at the Dettingen/Erms site was a give visitors an insight into our company. There was impacted by COVID-19. virtual event in 2020. The online sessions were hosted also an opportunity to talk to the trainers about the dual The outbreak of the pandemic by trainer Julia Höschle, training managers Giuseppe study program via chat or video. meant that the majority were Vernaci and Sigrid Moritz, and DHBW student Johanna cancelled or postponed, and Bauer. Participants enjoyed presentations about Particularly in the Aftermarket segment, some trade many organizers decided the company and the apprenticeships and dual study shows originally planned as face-to-face events were to reschedule and hold their programs on offer and had an opportunity to pose promptly moved online, such as those run by our events online. ElringKlinger questions to the hosts. Instead of the usual guided tour customers Nexus, Stahlgruber, and PV Automotive. has also been turning to through the training workshop and production facilities, ElringKlinger’s Annual General Meeting was also held online platforms. they were taken on a virtual tour of Dettingen Plant 1. virtually for the first time ever.
Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University Overall, the virtual trade shows and events provided a (DHBW) not only moved its lectures online but also good alternative in a year that has been dominated by turned the annual student information day that is COVID-19. But let’s hope that more in-person events normally held in Stuttgart in November into a virtual will be possible before too long, as personal dialogue event. Potential students could visit a virtual booth to is simply irreplaceable. find out more about the companies involved in the dual study program. ElringKlinger was represented by its Dettingen and Bietigheim-Bissingen sites. The booth
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 29 INTRANET RELAUNCH
INTRANET RELAUNCH New Intranet ready to go
The ElringKlinger Group’s Intranet system is poised One objective of the relaunch is to entrench the Intranet as for a major relaunch, with the new version due to be the primary information medium for all employees of the introduced in the first quarter of 2021. All employees ElringKlinger Group around the world. To achieve this, all will benefit from the extensive improvements, which units of the company will be invited to contribute interesting and relevant information, thereby generating added value are both technical and visual; greater user-friendli- across the organization. ness was also a high priority.
In technical terms, the revamped Intranet will be based on the new SharePoint Online standard and thus replace the existing SharePoint 2013 version. In another major innovation, it will also be possible to access the Intranet remotely via smart- phone. Content will be posted by selected staff members in specific departments of various sites, who will be granted special editorial rights for the publishing and maintenance of content, and receive special training in the run-up to the relaunch.
OVERVIEW OF NEW FEATURES AND ADVANTAGES
The new Intranet system will be structured like a homepage, with individual menus making navigation easier for users generally.
Topics of relevance to the whole Group will be positioned at the top of the starting page to attract maximum attention.
A reformed news section will contain Group news as well as site- specific reports. Every company will also be able to publish their own news. Themes of relevance only to certain sites or companies will be targeted at specific interest groups.
Frequently used applications (e.g., Workday, employee portal, canteen menus, and so on) can be pinned to the dashboard on the starting page for quick access.
TO CONTENT 20 30 GROUP BUSINESS UNIT 4M
CYLINDER-HEAD GASKETS/SPECIALTY GASKETS Fit for the future: new business unit 4M
Be mettlesome Be 4M
Given the process of transformation witnessed throughout the automobile industry, it is essential that ElringKlinger as an organization evolve in line with market changes. In this context, the introduction of our new business unit 4M (Metal Sealing Systems & Drivetrain Components) is to be seen as an important organizational building block when it comes to creating a solid foundation for the future of ElringKlinger. In accordance with our Group strategy, we will continue to develop and produce components for all types of drive system, whether for vehicles powered by combustion engines or by electric motors. Our sealing business centered around metal beaded gaskets will continue to make a sizeable contribution to our company's performance.
TO CONTENT 20 GROUP 31 BUSINESS UNIT 4M
NEW PRODUCT LINE STRUCTURE
4M PRODUCT PORTFOLIO
CG RC GB HG NA CYLINDER HEAD GASKET RUBBER COATED GASKETS GEARBOX GASKETS HOT GAS GASKETS NEW APPLICATIONS
FP AP FORMING PARTS ADVANCED PRODUCTS
The new business unit referred to as 4M brings together the expertise and resources associated with metal beaded gaskets, precision punching, and precision forming. In order to ensure In order to do justice to the changing market conditions that BU-4M can continue to evolve in a targeted manner in terms in the metal beaded gasket business in the future, we are of both technological and market-driven development, the prod- bringing together our existing expertise within the newly uct portfolio has been divided into the following six product lines: established business unit. The aim is to achieve greater responsiveness to the market. Looking to the future, we CG: Cylinder-Head Gaskets want to act even faster in order to meet the needs of our RC: Rubber Coated Gaskets customers in the best possible way. GB: Gearbox Gaskets HG: Hot Gas Gaskets FP: Forming Parts AD: Advanced Development WOJTEK KOLASINSKI, BU VICE PRESIDENT METAL SEALING & DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS Building on the competencies of BU-4M, the new product line Advanced Development is responsible for developing the next generation of products within the area of Metal Sealing Systems and Drivetrain Components, e.g., a rotor/stator and bursting membrane for cell cover housings. their own status quo continuously in order to bring about sustainable changes. The new business unit 4M is directed by Vice President Wojtek Kolasinski and his management team. The BU-4M team Innovative products and production processes as well as con- members are considered a key factor in successfully pursuing tinuous improvement with regard to operational excellence are market transformation: in line with the motto “Revolutionize the the main focus of our daily work in order to remain successful existing to drive the future” they are encouraged to challenge in the future.
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART OF BU-4M
BU-4M WOJTEK KOLASINSKI
BU-4M/A BU-4MQ BU-4MP BU-4MO BU-4MD ELISA RENTSCHLER ROLAND MAILÄNDER WOLFGANG SCHNECK MICHAEL BAYER BJÖRN BETZ
TO CONTENT 20 32 TECHNOLOGY AIRBUS
The fact that Airbus has chosen ElringKlinger as its technology partner underlines the strength of our fuel cell technology.
The power density of the stacks is of primary importance, particularly in the aviation industry. But other technically challenging performance criteria such as service life, and operational parameters such as operating temperature and humidity also have to be met in line with the specific needs of aviation.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DR. STEFAN WOLF
PARTNERSHIP WITH AIRBUS ElringKlinger enters aviation market
ElringKlinger joins forces with Airbus: we have entered into an agreement with the
aerospace company to form a long-term partnership in the area of fuel cell technology.
A joint venture will be set up to develop fuel cell stacks for the aviation industry
in the years to come.
TO CONTENT 20 TECHNOLOGY 33 AIRBUS
AIRBUS ZEROe
The strategic partnership between ElringKlinger and Airbus complements the recent announcement of the ZEROe concept aircraft. Airbus is focusing on hydrogen as a key technology in the development of the first zero-emission aircraft for the commercial market by 2035. To this end, Airbus is testing and researching a wide range of configurations and technologies for the use of hydrogen, including utilizing it in conjunction with fuel cells to generate electrical energy.
The automotive sector is not the only alternative because they efficiently generate high power density of its stacks and strong industry grappling with the question of the power required on board. expertise in industrialization processes. what mobility will look like in future. CEO Dr. Stefan Wolf comments: “Overall, fuel The partnership between ElringKlinger Faced with dwindling fossil fuel resources cells can massively reduce aircraft emissions. and Airbus has been set up as follows: and the consequences of climate change, the This is just one of the reasons why the market ElringKlinger will provide the company to be aviation industry is also tackling the challenge potential of our technology is so huge. newly established with access to technology, of how to make transport as climate-neutral It confirms the value of the strategy that we for which it will receive payment within the as possible. As a result, alternative drive have been pursuing for the last 20 years. As a double-digit million euro range. ElringKlinger systems are also gaining importance in the group we will, of course, be continuing with will also supply the new joint venture with the aviation sector. this strategy.” components for future systems. ElringKlinger will hold a minority interest in the company, Purely battery-powered systems are of limited Before signing the agreement, Airbus carried with the remaining shares held by Airbus. benefit to the aviation sector, particularly for out a detailed study of the fuel cell stack long-haul flights and larger aircraft due to market. In the international selection process, their weight. However, fuel cells are a viable ElringKlinger impressed the company with the
TO CONTENT 20 34 TECHNOLOGY
TO CONTENT 20 TECHNOLOGY 35
JOINT VENTURE EKPO FUEL CELL TECHNOLOGIES Lifting fuel cell technology together to the next level
ElringKlinger and Plastic Omnium are joining forces in the field of fuel cell technology. We are setting up a joint venture with the French automotive supplier called EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies, which is geared toward accelerating the growth of hydrogen-powered mobility and becoming a leading player on the fuel cell market.
TO CONTENT 20 36 TECHNOLOGY
Digital press conference.
Together with our partner Plastic Omnium, we will be leveraging our expertise in engineering and industrial-scale manufacturing to develop a portfolio of cost-efficient fuel cell solutions that meet our customers’ performance expectations as well as their reliability requirements.
DR. STEFAN WOLF, CEO
KEY FACTS ON THE JOINT VENTURE
Setting up a separate legal entity ElringKlinger to integrate its fuel cell business A separate legal entity (a limited-liability company, or GmbH) ElringKlinger is integrating its entire fuel cell business into has been established for the Joint Venture (JV). The JV will the JV. As well as its specialist personnel, this also includes have its own administrative and sales teams. the underlying expertise (R&D, patents) as well as assets (machinery, plant, and equipment). Headquarters in Dettingen/Erms The JV will be headquartered in Dettingen/Erms. Hall 700 will Developing, manufacturing, and marketing stacks be set up to serve as the control center for fuel cells. and components The JV will be developing and manufacturing stacks and ElringKlinger holds a majority stake components to be marketed to car makers and system The JV is majority-owned by the ElringKlinger Group, with integrators. The tie-up with Plastic Omnium will allow the 60% of the interests, and is fully included in ElringKlinger’s range of services to be optimized and expanded further and scope of consolidation. The staff at the new company remain production capacity expanded to handle large quantities. employed on the same terms as at ElringKlinger AG.
TO CONTENT 20 TECHNOLOGY 37
Dr. Stefan Wolf, CEO of ElringKlinger and Laurent Favre, CEO of Plastic Omnium.
We’re delighted by this strategic alli- ance with ElringKlinger. It’s the perfect complement to our positioning along the Franco- German entire hydrogen value chain. This tie-up partner company. marks another big step for us toward hydrogen-based mobility, in which we want to be a global leader.
LAURENT FAVRE, CEO OF PLASTIC OMNIUM ElringKlinger and Plastic Omnium both firmly believe that this zero-emission technology has an
extremely bright future. The joint venture will give ElringKlinger a strong partner. Plastic Omnium and ElringKlinger have many things in common: As well as sharing the same sector, Hydrogen will play a key role in the sustainable a background of family ownership, and a global pres- mobility of tomorrow. To drive the development of ence, they are united in their vision and their com- hydrogen-based fuel cell technology further forward, mitment to hydrogen. Plastic Omnium’s skill set also the two companies have decided to set up a joint complements ElringKlinger’s very well: The French venture – EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies – which will company brings expertise in complete hydrogen focus on developing, manufacturing, and marketing ystems and in making hydrogen tanks, enabling it to fuel cell stacks. meet customers’ requirements for turnkey systems.
TO CONTENT 20 38 TECHNOLOGY
ElringKlinger sells its subsidiary EKAT to Plastic Omnium ELRINGKLINGER FUELCELL SYSTEMS AUSTRIA (EKAT)
EKAT is to be integrated into the system network at Plastic Omnium
ElringKlinger holds Plastic Omnium holds 60% of the interests in 40% of the interests in the joint venture the joint venture
System integration will be handled by Plastic Omnium DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION OF FUEL CELL STACKS AND COMPONENTS
Assets, Manufacturing Integration know-how, personnel
Components Stacks Systems
EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies will be headquartered in Dettingen/Erms. plete entity. Plastic Omnium will be investing EUR 100 million in the new company. ElringKlinger will hold 60% and Plastic Omnium 40% of the interests in EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies. The joint venture will be headquartered at Plant I in ElringKlinger will contribute all its expertise in fuel cell Dettingen/Erms. Hall 700 will be set up as the control stacks to the joint venture. This includes its R&D work center, focusing exclusively on fuel cells. Armin Diez, done to date, its patents, and its technologies as well as Vice President Fuel Cell, will remain in charge of all employees from the 2F business unit, who are to be ElringKlinger’s fuel cell business and will become part transferred to the new, separate organization as a com- of the management team for the new joint venture.
TO CONTENT 20 TECHNOLOGY 39
Lifting fuel cell technology together to the The joint venture is aiming next level. to achieve a 10% to 15% share of the fuel cell technology market by 2030
As part of the agreement between the two companies, the Austrian subsidiary ElringKlinger Fuelcell Systems Austria GmbH (EKAT) is to be sold to Plastic Omnium. EKAT will be integrated into Plastic Omnium’s system network in order to pool all its expertise in complete fuel cell systems in one place. ABOUT PLASTIC OMNIUM Dr. Stefan Wolf and Laurent Favre, the CEOs of the two companies, had this to say about the project: “Plastic Omnium and ElringKlinger have invested intensively in Plastic Omnium is a French automotive supplier their hydrogen expertise for many years. Both are listed listed on the stock exchange. Established in companies with anchor shareholders from their founding 1946, the company is headquartered in Levallois- families and both share the same values. We now want to Perret in the Paris commuter belt. A global work together to create a leading provider for developing, market leader for smart chassis systems, clean designing, manufacturing, and marketing fuel cell stacks energy systems, and front-end modules, Plastic and components for automobiles, commercial vehicles, Omnium ranks 27th in the list of the world’s buses, trucks, and other mobility applications. Our aim is largest automotive suppliers. to harness hydrogen’s potential on the mass market and help to make carbon-neutral mobility a reality.”
EUR 9.2 billion revenue 2019 The market environment for fuel cells has enjoyed rapid growth over the past few years. Experts believe that,
by 2030, at least two to three million road vehicles fitted 131 plants and 25 R&D centers with this drive technology will be manufactured every year. The ambitious technology partnership between 32,000 employees in 25 countries ElringKlinger and Plastic Omnium can therefore be expected to enjoy rapid, successful growth. The EKPO
Fuel Cell Technologies joint venture is aiming to achieve 4.5% of revenue invested in R&D a 10% to 15% share of the fuel cell technology market by 2030, which equates to revenue of between EUR 700 93 customers million and EUR 1 billion. The venture’s production capacity – currently up to 10,000 stacks per year – is to be expanded in stages.
TO CONTENT 20 40 TECHNOLOGY SPONSORSHIP
600 KW TOTAL BOOST POWER
> 300 HM/H TOP SPEED 240 KW FUEL CELL POWER
0–100 KM/H IN <3.0 S ALL WHEEL DRIVE
The new Forze IX concept design.
SPONSORSHIP Cleaning up: hydrogen- powered motorsport
Delft University of Technology’s Forze Hydrogen Electric Racing Team is a
student-run motorsport crew that has already set multiple records with its car.
Pursuing a mission of “Zero Emission,” the team only uses hydrogen to power
its racers. ElringKlinger is now kitting out its next generation of vehicles,
the “Forze IX,” with two fuel cell stacks.
TO CONTENT 20 TECHNOLOGY 41 SPONSORSHIP
Forze Hydrogen Electric Racing has placed its trust in fuel cells.
The Mission is: Zero Emission.
The racing car in action.
Running only on hydrogen, its racing cars successfully gets access to innovative technology, while we get hold their own against their counterparts fitted with the opportunity to test out the performance capabil- traditional combustion engines. And the motorsport ities of our fuel cell stacks under extreme real-life team has already set several records. The students’ conditions. The Forze Hydrogen achievements with their “Forze VI” car included Electric Racing Team has chalking up a new lap record for the Zandvoort circuit. The new “Forze IX” design study was unveiled to been raising awareness of Posting a lap time of 2:05:45, the Forze VI also the public only recently. This generation of vehicles clean mobility since as long became the fastest hydrogen-powered car around sees two powerful fuel cell stacks fitted onto the ago as 2007 by combining the Nürburgring. NM12 platform. The students are currently working motorsport with sustainable closely with their partner companies to build yet technologies. As a non-profit foundation, the students’ motorsport another competitive racecar. In the 2022 season, the team gets all its funding from partners and sponsors. “Forze IX” should be seen on the race track – then This is where ElringKlinger comes in. After all, what with technology from ElringKlinger under the hood. could be more natural than equipping the vehicles with our fuel cell stacks? The partnership benefits both sides: the Forze Hydrogen Electric Racing Team
TO CONTENT 20 42 PEOPLE EKDRIVE
EKDRIVE HIGH POTENTIAL PROGRAMM Driving the right people in the right direction at the right time
ElringKlinger is committed to actively shaping the transition within the automobile industry, in addition to operating in a sustainable manner – and we are looking for talented people to support our strategic ambitions! The new EKDrive High Potential Program offers employees throughout the ElringKlinger Group opportunities for structured career development and promotion in specific areas. The program is aimed at identifying and fostering talented people within the Group and allowing them to apply their skills accordingly. The focus is on high-caliber individuals with the ability to meet demanding requirements and the desire to take on challenging tasks.
TO CONTENT 20 PEOPLE 43 EKDRIVE
WHAT IS THE TARGET GROUP? WHAT DOES THE SELECTION PROCESS INVOLVE? The EKDrive High Potential Program is targeted at employees with little or no managerial experience – people who display PROCEDURE above-average performance as well as the motivation and potential needed to take up a key role in the future in their The employees themselves are capacity as a manager or an expert in their field. Step 1 first invited to actively apply for admission to the program. There EKDrive is directed at employees at all ElringKlinger sites will be no direct nominations throughout the Group. It will be implemented at three regional by managers. Managers should levels – APAC (Asia-Pacific), Americas (USA, Canada, Mexico, encourage their employees to and Brazil), and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa). At a submit applications. global level, regional program participants will meet once a year at the EKDrive Summit networking event. The program also aims to promote gender and cultural diversity, which is Step 2 As part of talent interviews, of tremendous benefit to ElringKlinger in respect of business candidates will be systematically activity and social responsibility. selected for the next Talent Review Round.
HOW IS THE PROGRAM STRUCTURED? Step 3 The Talent Panel – consisting of managers and HR representatives – The program offers targeted development and training will make the final decision on activities for the purpose of strengthening the participants' candidates' participation in the leadership and expert skills. Learning pathways are outlined program. systematically with the help of 360° leadership diagnostic assessments, customized training and workshops, individual coaching, and participation in forums and global summits. The selection process within the APAC and Americas regions The supra-regional mentoring structure within the program has already taken place for 2020 – with six participants joining relies on experienced ElringKlinger managers to support the the program in Suzhou and ten in Toluca. In the EMEA region, development of those taking part. The mentors are to be seen the application process is currently underway and will be con- as personal advisors, critics, and supporters. The selection cluded by the end of February 2021. Those EKDrive participants process takes five months and the program itself covers a who have already been selected can look forward to an exciting period of one year. and thoroughly absorbing 12-month program.
WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE POINTS OF CONTACT FOR ABOUT THE PROGRAM? EKDRIVE HIGH POTENTIAL PROGRAM
For those interested in the EKDrive High Dr. Lucy Tengbeh, Corporate Potential Coordinator Potential Program, please refer to the intranet Mindy Gu, Regional Potential Coordinator APAC (Human Resources services page) for further Hans Karl Ernst Lühr, Regional Potential Coordinator EMEA information. Alternatively, you can contact one Diane Bryan, Regional Potential Coordinator Americas of the following regional coordinators.
TO CONTENT 20 44 PEOPLE OPEN DAY
There was also something on offer for younger visitors. ELRINGKLINGER ENGINEERED PLASTICS (QINGDAO) Open day for EKTC
At its open day in Qingdao, the company EKTC presented itself to a wide audience.
TO CONTENT 20 PEOPLE 45 OPEN DAY
The event, specifically aimed at German companies, was organized by the local authority and the Deutsch-Chinesischer Treffpunkt. an impression of our technologies and discuss them with the stand personnel. The open day was aimed at families, so the family members of EKTC staff could also use the opportunity to learn more about the company. The emphasis was on the exchanges between German businesses in Qingdao, representatives of the city The event concluded with a successfully creative administration, and the citizens of Qingdao. More than corporate presentation, which generated positive feed- 30 companies and institutions showcased their products back from the invited customers and family members and technologies. as well as the organizers. In view of the continuing coronavirus pandemic, effective safety measures were At the EKTC stand, products and solutions in the life put in place for the event; interested visitors were only science and e-mobility fields were unveiled. Key clients able to enter the exhibition area on presentation of a and managers in the medical sector were invited to gain health certificate.
Bo Sun, General Manager of EKTC More than (left), guided German 30 companies Ambassador Dr. Clemens showcased their von Goetze products and around the stand. technologies.
The EKTC stand showcased solutions for the fields of life science and e-mobility.
TO CONTENT 20 46 PEOPLE HOME OFFICE GUIDE
HOME OFFICE GUIDE Hints and tips for working productively
The coronavirus pandemic has entailed many changes to the usual working routine. Many office workstations, for example, were relocated to a home office environment at short notice, giving rise to a new and unfamiliar situation for the majority of employees. To establish the appropriate working atmosphere at home, it is often helpful to follow certain guidelines. Here we offer seven hints and tips to get you working productively from home.
TO CONTENT 20 PEOPLE 47 HOME OFFICE GUIDE
CHOOSE A WORKPLACE CAREFULLY The workplace you choose is key to productivity when working from home. Ideally, you will already have an office or other room that can be converted into a makeshift office. Wherever you choose, make sure the atmosphere is orderly: a separate room is not essential, but you should at least find somewhere that is clearly used for work.
MAKE A TIMETABLE Depending on your living situation, working from home can mean constant distractions. It is therefore advisable to draw up a precise daily timetable: What are my working hours? When are my break times? When do I finish? Your family should also be informed of your schedule. Clearly defined timeframes will help you stay focused when working from home, and help your family avoid disturbing you unnecessarily.
DEFINE CLEAR TARGETS Daily to-do lists can help you concentrate on important tasks and give you an overview of progress. It is best to start with the complicated, less pleasant tasks and save routine tasks for the end of the working day. Both discipline and clear objectives are important in terms of working from home productively.
COMMUNICATE YOUR AVAILABILITY Good communication is critical when working from a home office. This includes clocking on with your colleagues in the mornings and letting them know when you sign out in the evenings. Offering a friendly ‘good morning’ and a cordial ‘have a nice evening’ is not just polite but lets your team members know when you are available. You can also make use of the various statuses in Skype (active, away, do not disturb, etc.).
REGULAR BREAKS Breaks are important when it comes to maintaining focus and keeping productivity levels high. Many people working from home tend to pay insufficient attention to break times. You should therefore schedule fixed break times and distance yourself from your laptop or other devices.
DRESS FOR THE OFFICE In the mornings, be sure to dress in the same (or similar) clothes you would normally wear to the office. You don’t necessarily need to wear make-up or put on a freshly ironed shirt, but for most people, adhering to certain patterns of behavior even when working from home has a big influence on productivity. This includes the way you get ready for work in the morning.
AVOID DISTRACTIONS Try to avoid distractions and potential sources of interference from the outset (even if for those with children at home, that can be easier said than done). Nonetheless, you should aim to concentrate solely on work during your defined working hours. Set yourself clear priorities in order to avoid interruptions and distractions.
TO CONTENT 20 48 PEOPLE HEALTH AND SAFETY
CEK General Manager Dr. Peter Lindner gives the opening speech.
CHANGCHUN ELRINGKLINGER LTD. (CEK) Health and safety in Changchun
In China, the A health and safety competition was devised Dr. Lindner’s speech was followed by the month of June is to help production staff learn more about competition itself, which was divided into all about safety in safety at work, raise their awareness of the three rounds: a traditional question round, manufacturing – issue, and encourage them to take responsi- games of skill, and a lightning round. All the and our Chinese bility. The competition was initiated by the participants had done their homework, so all company company’s Environment, Health and Safety three rounds were fiercely contested. After Changchun department with the support of the local trade 90 minutes of intense competition it was time ElringKlinger Ltd. union. With the coronavirus pandemic now to present the awards. In third place came (CEK) is no largely under control in China, it was possible Maintenance, Production Department 1, and exception. to hold the competition in July 2020. the Quality and Prototyping team. Produc- tion Department 2 and the Toolmaking team In his opening speech, CEK General Manager shared second place, and first place went to Dr. Peter Lindner stressed the importance of the Logistics department. Congratulations health and safety for the company’s sustained to all the teams! growth. This is why safety management is a major concern for CEK. The competition was But the most important thing was the fact aimed to make production staff more aware of that all employees had a chance to learn safety in order to steadily reduce the number something new and improve their awareness of work-related injuries. Although progress of safety at work. The competition once again has been made, safety management cannot be underlined the importance of consistently relaxed because the target is zero accidents developing and improving safety in the work- in the workplace. place to achieve lasting results.
TO CONTENT 20 PEOPLE 49 HEALTH AND SAFETY
The competition in full swing: one person acts it out while the others try to guess. Health and safety at CEK: the participants and competition organizers.
The winning team show off their trophy.
TO CONTENT 20 50 OUTLOOK FACTS & FIGURES Facts & figures
8,000
ElringKlinger has donated 8,000 FFP3 respirator face masks to Reutlingen’s district hospitals to support the physicians and nurses in their work.
1,000,000 ElringKlinger’s IT systems directly block 1,000,000 spam messages every month, preventing them from landing in staff inboxes.
TO CONTENT 20 OUTLOOK 51 FACTS & FIGURES
The aerospace company Airbus intends to develop the first zero-emission aircraft for the commercial 2035 market by 2035.
ElringKlinger and Plastic Omnium have set up a joint venture called EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies, with ElringKlinger holding 60% and Plastic Omnium 40% of the interests. 60
2,000
EKTC’s production area in the Chinese city of Qingdao spans 2,000 square meters, about the size of eight tennis courts.
TO CONTENT 20 52 OUTLOOK EVENT TICKER
Key events in the coming Event ticker months
MARCH JUNE
Annual Press Conference FY 2020 JEC WORLD
March 30 June 1-3 Paris France OE
FC EXPO DRITEV
March 3-5 Tokyo Japan OE June 23-24 Bonn Germany OE
APRIL SEPTEMBER
HANNOVER MESSE IAA CARS
April 12-16 Digital Edition OE Sept 7-12 Munich Germany OE
AUTO SHANGHAI THE BATTERY SHOW NORTH AMERICA
April 21-28 Shanghai China OE Sept 14-16 Novi USA OE
AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT
MAY Sept 14-18 Frankfurt Germany IAM
HYVOLUTION NOVEMBER May 4-5 Paris France OE
116. Annual General Meeting AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI
May 18 Nov 24-27 Shanghai China IAM
THE BATTERY SHOW EUROPE CTI SYMPOSIUM Nov 29 to Dec 2 Berlin Germany OE May 18-20 Stuttgart Germany OE
Highlight Event OE – Automobile Original Equipment IAM – Independent Aftermarket
TO CONTENT 20 20
January 2021
Publisher
ElringKlinger AG Max-Eyth-Straße 2 72581 Dettingen/Erms Germany
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Responsible on behalf of the publisher
Andreas Brändle Vice President Marketing & Communications
Editors-in-Chief
Christoph Staib | Dettingen/Erms Petra Keppler-Matković | Dettingen/Erms Annika Müller | Dettingen/Erms
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