SEAT S.A.

Timeline 2023-1950

2023

2023 was a record-breaking year for SEAT S.A.. The company achieved a best ever operating profit of 625 million euros, driven by the record performance of CUPRA, the SEAT brand’s double-digit growth and the implementation of cost efficiencies. Despite a year of significant challenges in the automotive industry, SEAT S.A. delivered 519,176 vehicles, representing a 35.3% increase compared to 2022. 

CUPRA hit a record of 230,739 deliveries, up 50.9% compared to the previous year. The brand premiered its first all-electric SUV, the CUPRA Tavascan, as well as its new concept car, the CUPRA DarkRebel. Meanwhile, the SEAT brand strengthened its position, with 288,437 deliveries (2022: 232,696), an increase of 24.0% compared to the previous year.

2023 also saw the start of construction of two important facilities within the framework of SEAT S.A.’s transformation to electrification and its commitment to put Spain on electric wheels: the battery assembly plant in Martorell, and the PowerCo battery cell plant in Sagunto, near Valencia. SEAT S.A is investing 300 million euros in its new facility in Martorell, which will enable the assembly of battery cells from the PowerCo gigafactory in Sagunto for the CUPRA Raval and the VW ID. 2all. The two models will be the first all-electric models to be produced in Martorell. 

2022

2022 is the year of the company’s financial turnaround. By prioritising CUPRA and implementing a new cost reduction plan to guarantee long-term stability for the company, SEAT S.A. posts a turnover of 10.5 billion euros- the second highest in the company’s history. At the same time, CUPRA presents three new heroes for a new era – the CUPRA Tavascan, the CUPRA Terramar and the CUPRA Raval.

SEAT S.A. also takes a major step forward towards electrification when, together with the Volkswagen Group, PowerCo and the Future: Fast Forward partners, commits to investing 10 billion euros to transform Spain into a European hub for the electric vehicle. The project – the largest single industrial investment in Spanish history – will transform the country’s automotive industry, secure thousands of jobs, and drive competitiveness. It includes the creation of a battery Gigafactory in Sagunto, enabling the production of electric vehicles at the Martorell and Pamplona plants, and building-up a comprehensive supplier ecosystem.

2021

King Felipe of Spain VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visit the SEAT headquarters in Martorell to celebrate the company’s 70th anniversary. SEAT S.A. displays its ambition to transform the automotive sector in Spain with the Future: Fast Forward project with the development and production of urban electric vehicles at its core.

CUPRA tripled sales, driven by success of the Formentor, reaching almost 80,000 cars. The facelift of the SEAT Ibiza and SEAT Arona, two key pillars of the company’s range of vehicles, also entered production in July at SEAT’s Martorell facilities. SEAT MÓ’s first 100% electric scooter arrives in Italy, France, Germany, Austria, Sweden, and Greece.

2020

In the context of the global pandemic caused by COVID-19, SEAT S.A. demonstrates its commitment to society by manufacturing emergency respirators to help medical centers throughout Spain in the face of the health crisis. In addition, the company is the first in Spain to carry out PCR tests on its more than 15,000 workers to guarantee a safe return to work.

The company announces a 5-billion-euro investment plan for 2020-2025 in the recently opened CASA SEAT in the heart of Barcelona. Wayne Griffiths takes over as CEO of SEAT and CUPRA, leading the transformation of the company and its brands towards electrification and sustainable mobility. Against this backdrop, CUPRA launches its offensive with the first car developed and designed exclusively for the brand, the CUPRA Formentor. In parallel, SEAT consolidates its commitment to urban mobility with the creation of the SEAT MÓ business unit and the launch of the new SEAT MÓ eKickScooter 65 scooter and its first 100% electric scooter, the SEAT MÓ eScooter 125.ber. Commitment to environmental protection comes once more in the shape of the initiative SEAT al Sol, the largest photovoltaic rooftop array in Spain, and one of the largest in Europe. SEAT closes 2010 by reclaiming leadership in the Spanish market after a 31-year gap.

2019

A new record year in sales and record financial year for SEAT. But most important the start of its electric offensive. Vehicle deliveries amount to 574,100 units and grow by 10.9% - the best result in the company's 69-year history. The company launches the Mii electric, its first 100% electric model, and presents the plug-in hybrid version of the SEAT Tarraco. The company begins a first phase of electrification to which it will add five more models by early 2021.

In order to adapt to a context that is marked by change and to successfully tackle the company’s digital transformation, SEAT announces the creation of a software development center, called SEAT:CODE.

SEAT strengthens its urban mobility strategy and is chosen as the leading brand within the Volkswagen Group to define the strategy and offer urban mobility products. CUPRA experiences a 71.8% growth over the previous year, alongside the announcement of two new prototypes: the CUPRA Formentor and CUPRA Tavascan. versions. In the world of motorsport, SEAT takes home its first WTCC trophy with a third place, after an historic win of the Leon WTCC just two months after its début in this world championship.

2018

In February, SEAT announces the launch of CUPRA, a new vehicle brand with its own identity that offers a renewed vision of the contemporary sporting spirit. The CUPRA Ateca, presented in March at the Geneva International Motor Show, is the vehicle chosen by the new brand to open its range of models.

SEAT achieved its highest sales volume (517,600 vehicles, exceeding the record of the year 2000) and best results in the history of the company.

2017

With 468,400 vehicle deliveries, 2017 is a stand-out year in the history. The company has five consecutive years of consistent deliveries growth and obtains its best sales result since 2001. The year was marked by the biggest product offensive in history, with the launch of the new Arona, the new generation Ibiza and the revamped Leon. To show its commitment to the city of Barcelona, SEAT announces the CASA SEAT project, which aims to be the city’s meeting point for new trends and talent.

2016

SEAT delivers 410,000 vehicles in 2016, the best figure since 2007 and reveals its vision for the future of mobility, with the connected car at the hub of the user experience. The company begins its digital transformation, for which it creates the Easy Mobility Team, a transversal team aimed at leading the brand’s digitization.

2015

2015 is a key year for SEAT on its path to sustainable profitability. The company returns to economic profit and closes the year with earnings of €6 million after taxes and €8.3 billion in revenue, the highest figure in its history. In addition, 350 new jobs are created and the Martorell factory posts its highest production volume since 2001, exceeding the barrier of 400,000 vehicles sold for the first time since 2007. In September, Luca de Meo is appointed as the new President of SEAT, replacing Jürgen Stackmann.

2014

SEAT announces in March that a compact urban all-terrain vehicle will be added to the range, the company’s first ever SUV, to compete in a growing, demand-driven segment. In April, the company celebrates the 30th anniversary of the iconic Ibiza, and a few months later, its unit number 5 million rolls out of the factory. His Majesty King Felipe VI also visits the Martorell facilities in December. As the year draws to a close, the company posts a 10% increase in sales volume and a 13.5% increase in production in Martorell, setting a new record by reaching a turnover of €7.5 billion.

2013

The year begins with the 20th anniversary of the Martorell production plant. The facility continues to be one of the most modern in Europe thanks to annual investment by SEAT. The dynamic three-door versions (Leon SC) is presented in Geneva, with the estate version (Leon ST) unveiled at Frankfurt. In May, Jürgen Stackmann is appointed Chairman of SEAT’s Executive Committee. November saw the 60th anniversary of the first vehicle (the 1400) built by the company. The year ends with the highest invoicing figure in the history of the company – a record 6.5 billion euros.

2012

In April the annual results for 2011 are presented, showing an improvement thanks to an increase in exports; In May three cars are handed over to Barcelona City Hall, marking the beginning of this practice to institutional fleets with the aim of assessing performance. The Paris Motor Show provides the backdrop for the greatest product offensive in SEAT’s history, with the presentation of the long-awaited generation of the Leon, together with the new corporate identity.

2011

The IBX, prototype of the hybrid-power-driven urban SUV, is showcased in Geneva, together with the new four-wheel-drive Alhambra 4. In April SEAT participates for the first time in the Shanghai Motor Show, where it announces its arrival in China. The new SEAT Mii, a city car enabling the company to get back into this market segment, is unveiled in October.

2010

SEAT heads the Cenit VERDE project for the development of technologies and components enabling hybrid and electric cars to become a reality in Spain. The new Alhambra, the brand’s star MPV, hits the roads in September. Commitment to environmental protection comes once more in the shape of the initiative SEAT al Sol, the largest photovoltaic rooftop array in Spain, and one of the largest in Europe. SEAT closes 2010 by reclaiming leadership in the Spanish market after a 31-year gap.

2009

In January the Leon Twin Drive project, the first prototype of a hybrid car, is presented. The Geneva Motor Show in March showcases the presentation of the Exeo ST and prototype of the Leon Ecomotive Concept. In September the Frankfurt Motor Show provides the backdrop for the IBZ concept car, a foretaste of the estate version of the Ibiza, and Ecomotive versions of the Altea, Altea XL and Leon. Once more, SEAT takes the WTCC world title in the manufacturers and drivers’ categories. The brand sponsors the UEFA Europa League.

2008

Commitment to sustainable mobility becomes a reality with the official opening of a new rail link enabling the transport of 80,000 cars a year from Martorell to the port of Barcelona. At the London Motor Show, the new Ibiza SC (SportCoupe) is presented. During its fourth season of the WTCC SEAT achieves an historic triumph by winning both the manufacturers and drivers’ categories.

2007

On January 12th SEAT Service opens, a building bringing together the brand’s after-sales activity under a single roof. On 30th December the official opening of the feiert SEAT Design Center (SDC) takes place, the only one of its kind in Spain. Other important highlights are the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the SEAT 600; car number 6 million rolling off the assembly line at the Martorell production plant; the 50th anniversary of the SEAT Training Center.

2006

In February the new Ibiza 2006 is presented, with its revamped look both inside and outside, highlighting its dynamically sporty features. At the Madrid Motor Show the new Leon FR celebrates its premiere. The same month SEAT’s new corporate building is officially opened at the Martorell facilities.

2005

At the Barcelona Motor Show in May, SEAT unveils the new Leon, both the standard Leon and Leon WTCC competition versions. In the world of motorsport, SEAT takes home its first WTCC trophy with a third place, after an historic win of the Leon WTCC just two months after its début in this world championship. 

2004

On May 13th management and the majority trade unions UGT and CC.OO. sign SEAT’s 17th Collective Agreement, which includes significant advances in terms of flexibility and labour relations. At the Paris Motor Show in September, where the Ibiza celebrates its 20th anniversary with 3.3 million units built, SEAT unveils the new Toledo, a ground-breaking car with a three-volume architecture.

2003

SEAT presents the Altea prototype, the Ibiza Cupra and Cupra GT, a vehicle created especially for motor racing. Also, the 225 hp Leon Cupra R, the most powerful and fastest production model in SEAT’s history, was showcased. SEAT makes an official comeback to international racing circuits at the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC), with the Toledo GT carrying off victory in the Spanish Grand Touring Championship in its first year of participation.

2002

SEAT becomes a member of the Audi Brands Group, together with Audi itself and Lamborghini, as a result of the new Volkswagen Group organisation. Dr. Andreas Schleef is appointed new SEAT President. The new Cordoba, a more family-orientated car with a revamped image as already seen in the Ibiza, is presented at the September Paris Motor Show. SEAT achieves a notable victory in its comeback to circuit motor racing with the SEAT Leon Supercopa.

2001

Launch of the Leon Cupra R prototype, developed by SEAT Sport. After transfer from Brussels, the first unit of the Toledo rolls off the assembly line at the Martorell production facility. The SEAT Tango concept car is presented. At the Bologna Motor Show, SEAT puts the new Ibiza on display, a new generation of the brand’s most charismatic car. The euro is adopted as the company’s official internal currency.

2000

The Salsa has its début – a concept car initiating a ground-breaking style for the new image of the brand’s products. On SEAT’s 59th anniversary, HRH King Juan Carlos of Spain holds an audience with the company management, and the Prince of Asturias visits the Martorell facilities. The Technical Center is 25 years old.

1999

SEAT shows its brand-new corporate identity and reveals the new Leon for the first time. This model marks SEAT’s return to the leading segment in European markets.

1998

Providing SEAT products with a new, modern image, the new Toledo is presented at Paris Motor Show. The brand also puts on display the Cordoba WRC, which makes its first appearance in the top category of world rallies and maintains its predominance in the 2-litre category by adding a third consecutive title with the Ibiza Kit Car.

1997

The Ibiza Kit Car is proclaimed FIA 2-litre World Rallies champion for the second year running. The small Arosa and the Cordoba Vario saloon are presented.

1996

SEAT wins the FIA 2-litre World Rallies Championship with the Ibiza Kit Car with its first appearance in this competition. The Alhambra MPV is unveiled.

1995

On September 26th HRH the Prince of Asturias drives SEAT car number 10 million (a Toledo) off the assembly line.

1994

SEAT renames the Fábrica Navarra de Automóviles S.A. that was founded in 1993 to Volkswagen Navarra, S.A.

1993

On February 22nd HM King Juan Carlos I officially opens the Martorell production plant. Production of the new Ibiza begins, and the Cordoba model is presented.

1992

During the 25th Olympic Games the brand participates as a Partner and Sponsor of the Olympic Volunteers Programme.

1991

Presentation of the Toledo the first SEAT model developed within the Volkswagen Group.

1990

Volkswagen acquires further shares in SEAT, totalling a 99.99% equity stake. The name Sociedad Española de Automóviles de Turismo is changed to SEAT, S.A.

1989

Construction work begins on the Martorell production plant.

1986

In June Volkswagen acquires 51% of SEAT shares, by the end of the year increases its stake to 75%. SEAT begins to export to Europe: the Netherlands gets the first exports of the brand’s new models. SEAT Sport, SEAT’s motorsport branch, is created.

1984

On 27th April the first Ibiza model rolls off the assembly lines at Barcelona’s Zona Franca area.

1982

On September 40th industrial and commercial cooperation agreements are signed with Volkswagen.

1975

The Martorell Technical Center starts up activities.

1974

SEAT car number 2 million is built, and the facilities at Landaben (Pamplona) are acquired.

1973

Construction begins on the SEAT Technical Center at Martorell.

1968

SEAT production reaches 1 million units.

1965

First export of SEAT cars to Colombia.

1957

On June 27th production of the SEAT 600 begins, and with it the era of mass motoring in Spain.

1953

On June 5th the production facility in Barcelona’s Zona Franca is officially opened.

1950

On May 9th the Sociedad Española de Automóviles de Turismo S.A. is officially founded.