Developed on a build-to-suit basis for ZF Chassis Modules, the facility will supply chassis systems to the nearby BMW plant. This marks ZF's second such development in Hungary, following its recent project in Kecskemét. Representing an investment of nearly HUF 7.5 billion and implemented in close cooperation with the local municipality, this environmentally friendly facility embodies 21st-century solutions and will create 220 new jobs in the Northwestern Economic Zone.
Panattoni Hungary, the local subsidiary of the world’s leading industrial real estate developer, ensured that the project simultaneously protected natural habitats, adhered to rigorous sustainability aspects, and met BMW’s stringent manufacturing requirements. As a result, a comprehensive industrial ecosystem has been established on what was previously undeveloped land – complete with roads, utilities, and supporting industrial infrastructure. Despite the complexity of these requirements, the project was completed on schedule, enabling ZF Chassis Modules to commence operations as planned.
"Following our success in Kecskemét, we are proud to announce another high-tech industrial development of its kind in Debrecen. The project progressed at a demanding pace and was delivered on time – a clear reflection of Panattoni’s core values: agility, efficiency, and reliability in industrial real estate development,” said László Kemenes, Managing Director of Panattoni Hungary.
As a critical part of BMW’s supply chain, the new plant assembles front and rear axles in a just-in-sequence process – aligning delivery precisely with BMW’s production schedule and specifications. “Once operating at full capacity, the facility will produce and deliver chassis systems for 35 vehicles per hour. The highly automated production lines perform 22–24 assembly steps separately for front and rear systems. To ensure continuous operation, logistics must coordinate the delivery, storage, and supply of nearly 500 different parts from over 60 suppliers, based on BMW’s forecasts,” explained Csaba Varjassy, Plant Manager of ZF Chassis Modules Hungary.
The facility operates without local CO₂ emissions, using electric heat pumps, and was custom-built to meet ZF’s specific needs. According to Varjassy, serial production is expected to begin as early as August 2025.
The project was financed by the OTP Real Estate Investment Fund, which has partnered with Panattoni on several milestone developments in Hungary, including Rossmann’s new logistics base. “We prioritize investments that generate long-term sustainable value. At the Debrecen site, ESG considerations played a central role – the building is targeting BREEAM Excellent certification, and special lighting and biodiversity-friendly features were implemented to minimize environmental impact,” noted Gábor Jandácsik, Managing Director of the OTP Real Estate Investment Fund.
The site features 43.85% green space, and its lighting system is designed to prevent light pollution beyond the property line. The general contractor, DVM Greenfield, delivered a project that not only meets high technical standards but also aligns with unique sustainability goals – such as a specially designed fence passageway that allows small wildlife to cross freely between agricultural areas.
This development represents another major milestone in the economic growth of Debrecen and the surrounding region. Industrial investments like this are particularly important for Eastern Hungary, strengthening the local economy, reducing outmigration, and enhancing regional competitiveness.
“The arrival of BMW sparked a wave of investment that introduced cutting-edge automotive technology to our region and gave rise to an entire supplier ecosystem. A key player in this ecosystem is ZF Foxconn, a company shaping the automotive industry for over 30 years. Their presence in Debrecen is especially significant – beyond assembling front and rear axles on a nearly 16,000-square-meter site, their investment also reflects a clear commitment to electromobility and innovation. This supports Debrecen’s ambition to become a hub for future industries and a European center for electromobility. The collaboration between ZF and BMW ensures Debrecen’s position not only as a manufacturing center but also as an innovation ecosystem that keeps pace with the latest industry trends,” said Dr. László Papp, Mayor of Debrecen. He added: “Today’s inauguration demonstrates that Debrecen is on the right path. I would like to thank the leadership of ZF and the decision-makers at Panattoni for choosing Debrecen as the site of their investment, as well as the Hungarian government for providing the necessary infrastructure support to enable these units to operate.”
The new facility is actively recruiting assembly operators, logistics operators, forklift drivers, maintenance staff, and a variety of office positions.
Panattoni
