The SEAT factory in Martorell is the first Spanish plant to receive components via drone delivery. In collaboration with logistics specialists Grupo Sesé, the Spanish carmaker has a pioneering service connecting Sesé’s logistics center in Abrera with the SEAT factory in Martorell using drones.

The first parts delivery service between two production plants in Spain by drone was officially made on Wednesday, and from now on will continue with deliveries of steering wheels and airbags to the SEAT assembly lines. The pilot project is being carried out under the supervision of the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency (AESA) and will go forward in an experimental phase with several flights per day.

The addition of drones will improve flexibility on the production lines by connecting the just over two-kilometer distance that separates both facilities for just in time fast deliveries in only 15 minutes, a process which is currently done by truck and takes 90 minutes. With this move, every time a part is needed on the production line, delivery will be made quickly, thus improving efficiency.

This innovation is framed within SEAT’s commitment to Industry 4.0. The company is now undergoing a transformation process aimed at making the Martorell factory smarter and further digitalized and connected in order to boost efficiency, flexibility and sustainability. Delivery using drones represents a reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to truck transport and in addition, the drone’s batteries are recharged using renewable energy.

SEAT Vice-president for Production and Logistics Dr. Christian Vollmer, who brought this idea to SEAT, emphasized that the first flight was the first step in transforming the supply chain in the automotive industry.

Delivery using drones is going to revolutionize logistics, as for example in the case of SEAT it will reduce delivery time by 80%. With this innovation we are boosting Industry 4.0 and we will become more efficient, agile and competitive, as well as much more sustainable.

—Dr. Christian Vollmer