GERMANY: Minister President of Baden-Württemberg, Stefan Mappus, formally opened Voith's rail transmission factory in Heidenheim on March 3. The plant's initial order covers the supply of 2240 transmissions to Bombardier for 80 Zefiro high speed trains which are being built in China.

The factory employs 230 people, and has been designed around production techniques from other industrial sections including the automotive industry.

'Experience with other investment projects has proven that it is possible to produce in Germany for the world market at competitive prices. This is why we are investing in Heidenheim', said Voith Chairman Dr Hubert Lienhard.