MoLeWa: Leipzig Automotive Transformation Network – Driving Innovation & Sustainability
About this good practice
The automotive industry is a major economic sector in the Leipzig region, employing around 20,000 people. The MoLeWa initiative focuses on a core principle: facilitating systemic change through multi-stakeholder collaboration and strategic infrastructure development for regional sustainability. It is a "transformation network" designed to facilitate: a smooth transition for the automotive and related industries in the face of challenges like the shift to e-vehicles, digitalization, workforce training and development needs; compliance with environmental and climate protection regulations; and discussions on solutions for improving mobility infrastructure, such as charging stations and public transport.
The initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, including automotive companies, suppliers, research institutions, labour organizations, and government entities. Through workshops, network forums, and collaborative projects; creating a platform for dialogue and knowledge-sharing; and developing strategies and initiatives to address the challenges facing the industry, it aligns a long-term future strategy for the Leipzig transformation region.
Beneficiaries include regional automotive and supply industries, research institutions, labour market stakeholders, educational service providers, political bodies, and organizations representing business and social partners.
Resources needed
The consortium includes partners from the public and the private sector, combining expertise from research institutes to unions, from innovation leaders to education providers. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) with almost 6m €.
Evidence of success
The MoLeWa survey highlights its impact: 18% of businesses lack systematic workforce planning, 47% have only partially implemented qualification strategies, and over 60% acknowledged the need for more investment in digitalization. More than 50% see automation as a key challenge. The initiative boosted cross-sector collaboration, fostering joint projects between businesses and research institutions, and strengthening Leipzig’s transformation efforts to sustainability.
Potential for learning or transfer
MoLeWa provides a scalable blueprint for industrial transformation, workforce upskilling, and sustainable mobility planning. The MoLeWa network offers valuable lessons for other regions aiming to drive a digital shift in the automotive sector towards sustainability. Key success factors include a collaborative multi-stakeholder network, research-driven strategies (with international best practices), and a holistic focus on economic, social, and ecological sustainability. The emphasis on workforce development and regular forums for dialogue also strengthens the approach. Challenges for transfer may include regional industry composition, political support, financial resources, and infrastructure readiness, especially in areas with smaller automotive sectors or less developed transport networks. Regions with similar challenges and goals could benefit from adopting Leipzig’s stakeholder cooperation and evidence-based strategies for a sustainable mobility transition.
Further information
Documents
Study Automotive Industry Eastern Germany
Website
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