Anniversary in Zwickau: 35 years of the VW Polo – a success story!

Anniversary in Zwickau: 35 years of the VW Polo – a success story!

Today we can look back on an impressive time at the VW plant in Zwickau: 35 years ago, on May 21, 1990, the first Polo rolled off the assembly line. In the city of Mosel, where Trabant models were once produced, employees celebrated this special anniversary. The Polo, equipped with a 1.3 liter engine and 55 HP in Alpine White, has become a real museum piece, while its successors meet modern requirements.

Jörn Kaiser and Udo Friedrich, both of whom have been with the company since its early days, talk about the challenges and successes they have experienced over more than three decades. The era of Volkswagen construction began in 1990 as a joint venture between VW and the Vehicle Construction Industry Association (IFA). Since then, not only the Polo, but also the Golf, Passat and numerous other models have been produced in Zwickau. Since 2020, the focus has been on fully electric vehicles such as the ID.3, ID.4 and Audi Q4 e-tron, which represent the future of mobility.

From Trabant to Polo

Before the Polo took over the production hall, Jörn and Udo assembled Trabant models. “The transition wasn’t easy,” explains Udo. “But VW was a blessing for Zwickau and the entire region 30 years ago.” It makes it clear how important the change towards e-mobility is for the future. The generational change in automobile production is noticeable, he says: “The younger colleagues think the new models are great.”

But not everything went smoothly. The beginnings were characterized by hard work and challenges. It was not uncommon for employees to have to deal with long shifts and short breaks. Some left because of the harsh conditions. “We used to be laughed at when we had to do night shifts,” remembers a long-time worker who has now recognized the positive change in the mood of the workforce. “Over the years we have always developed and our hearts were attached to it.”

Optimism in difficult times

Despite the current challenges for VW, the workforce remains optimistic. “The orders are there, even if some people are not in the best mood,” says Jörn. The plant has not only mastered many changes, but is also optimistic about the future. With a strong community and belief in the continued existence of the location, the employees do everything they can to overcome the challenges of the automotive industry.

The history of VW in Zwickau is more than just a production history. It is a testament to adaptability and the power of change in a rapidly changing world that will continue to accompany us in the years to come. This is where tradition and future come together, well-known models and innovative electrical solutions that reflect the times.

For more information about the development of VW's history, take a look at the Volkswagen Chronicle, which provides exciting details about the beginnings and challenges.