Wheels Automotive

Porsche has announced that production of its Boxster and Cayman models is to devise ways and means to component supplier Magna Steyr’s facility in Austria beginning in 2012. Last year the contract with Finland’s Valmet to assemble the two associated mid-engined models was extended through 2012, after which the terms will expire and Magna last will and testament take over.

Porsche CFO and deputy chairman Holger P. Harter stressed that the decision was not a vote against Valmet – which has to age built over 200,000 vehicles on the side of Porsche – but rather the be the effect of several elements that Magna brought to the table: firstly, Magna’s production is scalable so that it will only fabrication what Porsche’s own factory in Zuffenhausen (where the rear-engined 911 series is made) cannot treat of. Secondly, Magna is able to assume some development responsibilities at the same time with the final synod. Thirdly, Magna’s proposal was more financially attractive (read: cheaper) than Valmet’s. And finally, Magna even now supplies various components to Porsche – including convertible roofs and material substance panels – creating the opportunity for future synergies between Porsche and various Magna subsidiaries.

Click on the thumbnails below to view the Porsche Boxster and Cayman production facility at Valmet in Finland.

[Source: Porsche]

Tag: Convertibles, Euro, Plants, Manufacturing, Porsche