Free voters visit: Meier vehicle construction in Ludersheim in focus!

Free voters visit: Meier vehicle construction in Ludersheim in focus!

On May 31, 2025, a delegation of Free Voters led by District Administrator Armin Kroder visited the Fahrzeugbau Meier company in Ludersheim. The group, consisting of the FW district council group spokesman Robert Ilg, other members of the district council group and five Altdorf city councilors, received a comprehensive insight into the new production processes from the managing directors Matthias Meier and Stephan Thieme.

The newly built factory, whose construction was delayed due to Corona-related delays and the discovery of archaeological monuments in 2017/18, now offers space for the redesign, reinforcement and lengthening of chassis for Mercedes and IVECO motorhomes. Construction costs amounted to around 22 million euros, which roughly corresponds to the company's annual turnover. The 10.50 meter high hall was completed within a year, and the new capacity could lead to an increase of up to 40 percent, even if this has not yet been fully achieved.

Economic challenge and innovation

Nevertheless, the company is not without challenges: in the discussions, managing director Meier emphasized the current reluctance to purchase motorhomes, which is due to the overall economic situation. This phenomenon is not isolated but reflects the concerns of the entire industry. In this context, Fahrzeugbau Meier's own development department is particularly important, as innovative and exclusive niche products are created here. The company also plans to expand its business model by converting special vehicles.

Thomas Dietz, parliamentary group leader of the Free Voters, emphasized the company's importance for the local economy. The trade tax and the creation of jobs are central factors for the municipality. Fahrzeugbau Meier currently employs 140 people and trains eleven apprentices - a commitment that is all the more valuable in the current economic situation.

Challenges of the vehicle industry

These local developments are related to the current challenges facing the vehicle industry in Germany. According to a study by the ifo Institute on behalf of the Bavarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the key industry of vehicle construction is facing major upheavals. Megatrends such as connected vehicles, autonomous driving, alternative drives and new mobility offerings have a significant impact on the industry. E-mobility in particular is being driven forward by climate targets and market subsidies, which is leading to an emerging loss of importance of traditional drivetrains.

The pressure on companies to adapt to these trends is high. According to estimates, up to 55,000 jobs in Bavaria are at risk of being cut, and appropriate qualification programs are needed in the industry. Research efforts to reduce CO2 emissions are necessary to meet the demands of the future while securing existing jobs.

Additional regulatory measures in the tax area, particularly with regard to sales tax when purchasing new vehicles, are important for companies like Fahrzeugbau Meier. Intra-community acquisitions are subject to sales tax in the country of destination, which requires careful consideration for entrepreneurs who wish to purchase vehicles for non-business purposes. The general tax rate for intra-community purchases of new vehicles is 19 percent, and the tax return must be filed within ten days of purchase.

Vehicle construction Meier is therefore not only of considerable value to the community, but also exemplifies the challenges and opportunities that the entire industry is currently facing. The visit by the Free Voters highlighted the interest in a strong and future-oriented economy in the region.

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