Features
19 Jul 18

Seat begins assembly in Algeria to boost global presence

As part of its global strategy to grow outside its European market, Seat has started final assembly of the Arona and Leon in Algeria. Earlier this year, Seat has been made responsible for Volkswagen Group's expansion in North Africa.

The Arona and Leon are manufactured in Martorell and final assembly is carried out in the SOVAC and Volkswagen Group's plant in Algeria. SOVAC is the Group's importer in Algeria.

Both cars join the Ibiza, which has been assembled in Algeria since 2017.

Seat Vice-President for Marketing and Sales Wayne Griffiths said: "In order to boost our globalisation strategy it's essential that we assemble models outside Europe, just as other European carmakers are doing. Algeria is our first step in this direction, as it is one of the main markets in the region and a real growth opportunity for Seat, as are the rest of the countries in northern Africa, where Seat is responsible for leading the Volkswagen Group's expansion."

China

Last week, Seat also signed an agreement whereby it has teamed up with the JAC Volkswagen joint venture to become a shareholder. The agreement includes introducing the Seat brand in China by 2020-2021, making it the Volkswagen Group's lead brand in this project.

Image: A Seat Ibiza, Leon and Arona at VW's Algerian plant (source: Seat)

Authored by: Benjamin Uyttebroeck