THE Finnish technology company Epec has opened a new state-of-the-art factory. 

The Epec Smart Factory 1 (ESF1) in Seinäjoki, Finland, produces control units, displays, sensors, power distribution units and telematics units for the needs of various mobile work machines and commercial vehicles.

Epec is a subsidiary of Ponsse, having worked alongside the forestry manufacturer to develop the EV1, a forwarder that runs off an electric powertrain. 

Jyri Kylä-Kaila, managing director of Epec, said: “Responsibility goals are also pushing the technology transformation in the mobile machinery and commercial vehicle sector. The technology transformation is accelerating digitisation and electrification in mobile machinery and vehicles. Epec’s products play a key role in enabling the development of more responsible mobile machinery and commercial vehicles.” 

Juho Nummela, president and CEO, Ponsse, added: “We are really excited about Epec’s new factory. The rapid development of technology and increasing sustainability demands provide Epec with an excellent opportunity to contribute to technology aimed at zero emissions. Ponsse’s vision is to be the preferred partner in responsible forestry, obliging us to conduct bold development work from an environmental perspective as well.”

The factory, covering an area of 8,500 m², incorporates energy-efficient solutions, including electricity generation from more than 600 solar panels (210 MWh/year) and a geothermal system. Heat recovery is achieved through efficient needle heat exchangers, and the need for cooling energy is significantly reduced by an aluminium grille in the office wall. All electricity and heating energy is sourced from renewable sources.