In October 2016, I traveled to my home state of Tennessee to attend the dedication ceremony of high-tech automotive manufacturer Ficosa’s 270,000 square foot, state-of-the art facility in Cookeville.
Based in Barcelona, Spain, Ficosa researches, develops and manufactures vision safety, connectivity and efficiency systems for the automotive industry. Founded in 1949, Ficosa is known for its rear-view systems (both interior and side mirror) that are used by top global OEMs (original equipment manufacturers).
And, primarily, that’s exactly what Ficosa’s new Cookeville plant will be churning out for the company’s U.S. market. In fact, Ficosa already produces rear-view systems for a host of automotive manufacturers including Ford, General Motors, Volkswagen, Nissan and Fiat Chrysler.
Below you’ll find a selection of photos from my exclusive look at the innovative facility.
If you want to read more about Ficosa and Tennessee’s booming automotive manufacturing industry, check out my full story in the January/February digital edition of IMPO.
Before the dedication ceremony at Ficosa's new plant in Cookeville, Tennessee.
The Chairman of Ficosa, Josep Maria Pujol, prepares for the dedication ceremony.
Josep Maria Pujol pulls a pipe from his pocket for a quick smoke before the ceremony.
A crowd of local influncers, politicians and manufacturing leaders gather.
Tennessee Congresswoman Diane Black delivers a few remarks at Ficosa's dedication ceremony in Cookeville.
Ficosa’s CEO Javier Pujol translates for his father, Josep Maria Pujol (also the Chairman of Ficosa), as he addresses those gathered in Spanish.
A look inside a vehicle outfitted with Ficosa's latest high-tech systems.
The view walking onto the plant floor of Ficosa's 270,000 square foot facility.
A tour guide show off Ficosa's high-tech painting and drying operations.
On the plant floor of Ficosa's already busy operations in Cookeville. When working at full capacity, facility will be staffed by over 900 employees who will produce 4.5 million units per year.
To read more about my tour of Ficosa's exclusive Tennessee facility, click here.
