The discussions also addressed the business environment for manufacturing companies in Germany. ATE highlighted several challenges, including increasing bureaucratic requirements, difficulties in sourcing rare-earth magnets, and growing competitive pressure from China. The participants also discussed how medium-sized companies can safeguard their competitiveness and ability to invest over the long term.
ATE has continuously invested in its Leutkirch site in recent years. Following the expansion of Plant 3, the company increased its potting capacity in 2024. In 2025, ATE also commissioned a new laser cutting center in Plant 5. The current Plant 4 offers further opportunities for expansion, providing a solid foundation for the site’s continued development.
“Innovative and internationally active medium-sized companies are of great importance to a strong business location such as Leutkirch,” emphasized Mayor Hans-Jörg Henle. “Direct dialogue with local businesses is therefore particularly important. It is the only way to identify challenges at an early stage and make targeted improvements to the framework conditions at municipal, state, and federal levels,” Henle added.
ATE currently employs around 165 people at its Leutkirch site and operates a production area of more than 6,500 square meters. The company develops and manufactures customized electric drive systems for a wide range of applications, including mechanical engineering, aerospace, marine applications, motorsports and automotive, as well as compressors, test benches, and medical technology. Each year, around 50,000 motor components of various sizes and power ratings are produced.
