The launch of four new SEAT models between 2016 and 2017 is the result of a record investment in research and development.
The announcement was made by Luca de Meo, president of SEAT, during a visit by the President of the Government of Catalonia, Carles Puigdemont, to the brand's premises in Martorell, which coincided with the start of production of the new SEAT Ibiza.
De Meo explains that the total amount of investment was mostly allocated to the development of the Ibiza and Arona and the adaptation of the Martorell factory, in order to accommodate the production of both models. The value of 900 million euros is part of an overall investment of 3.3 billion euros.
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to the country's economic development and confirms our leadership as the largest industrial investor in R&D. We are investing unprecedented sums to launch new models. SEAT plays a key role in terms of investment, technology, industry and employment, as well as creating wealth and prosperity”.
Luca de Meo
Developed exclusively in Barcelona, the Ibiza is already being produced on Line 1 at Martorell, the factory that produces the largest number of vehicles in Spain. The new Ibiza will coexist, for a few months, with the previous generation.
Starting in the second half of 2017, this same production line will accommodate the assembly of the new SEAT Arona , the new compact crossover from the Spanish brand. The SEAT Leon and the Audi Q3 are also produced in Martorell.
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The brand recently posted the best financial results in its history, with a record operating profit of 143 million euros. According to SEAT, the new Ibiza reflects the culmination of a consolidation phase and the beginning of a new period of growth, which coincides with the year in which the Spanish brand will launch its biggest product offensive.
