- Valeo has established France as a key hub for high-voltage inverter production supporting future EV programs.
- Production will begin in 2026, targeting electric passenger and commercial vehicles from 2027 onward.
Valeo has taken a significant step in strengthening its electrification strategy by commissioning new high-voltage production lines at its Etaples facility in France. The newly inaugurated lines are dedicated to manufacturing 400V and 800V inverters, which are essential components in modern electric powertrains. This development positions the Etaples site as a central hub within the company’s national manufacturing network for advanced EV power electronics.
Strategic Expansion of High-Voltage Manufacturing Capabilities
The introduction of these new production lines reflects Valeo’s growing focus on high-voltage systems required for next-generation electric vehicles. Inverters play a critical role in converting electrical energy and managing motor performance, making them vital for both efficiency and performance in EV applications. By localizing this production capability in France, the company is strengthening supply chain resilience while aligning with broader industry electrification trends.
Integration Across Multiple Production Sites
The Etaples facility operates as part of a broader manufacturing ecosystem, assembling inverters and switching cells using sub-components sourced from Valeo’s other facilities in Sainte-Florine and Sable-sur-Sarthe. This integrated approach enables optimized production flow, ensuring consistency in quality and scalability. The collaboration between these sites highlights a coordinated strategy to support increasing demand for electric drivetrain components.
Production Timeline and Market Focus
The plant has already secured its first commercial contracts, with production activities scheduled to begin in 2026. These components will be supplied for electric passenger and commercial vehicles, with full-scale deployment expected from 2027 onward. This timeline aligns with the accelerating adoption of EVs across multiple vehicle segments, particularly in Europe where regulatory pressures are driving rapid electrification.
Workforce and Operational Transition
Currently, the Etaples site manufactures approximately 8.3 million 12V and 48V electric motors annually and employs around 1,200 personnel. To support the transition toward high-voltage systems, Valeo plans to expand its workforce by adding 50 new employees by 2026. This workforce expansion is aimed at ensuring smooth integration of new technologies while maintaining existing production efficiency.
High-Voltage Production Capacity Overview at Etaples Plant
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Etaples, France |
| New Production Lines | 400V and 800V inverters |
| Production Start | 2026 |
| Vehicle Application | Passenger and commercial EVs |
| Current Output | 8.3 million 12V/48V motors annually |
| Workforce | 1,200 employees + 50 planned |
The expansion at Etaples demonstrates Valeo’s commitment to advancing high-voltage electrification technologies and scaling production to meet future mobility demands. By combining new infrastructure, integrated manufacturing processes, and workforce growth, the company is reinforcing its position in the evolving electric vehicle ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Valeo’s new high-voltage inverter production lines in France?
The new production lines enable Valeo to manufacture advanced 400V and 800V inverters critical for electric vehicles. These systems improve energy conversion efficiency and support high-performance EV architectures. By establishing this capability in France, Valeo strengthens its supply chain and supports growing demand for electrified mobility across passenger and commercial vehicle segments starting from 2027.
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