On July 9, 2026, we visited Sonplas GmbH in Straubing as part of the “Cluster on Site” program. About 25 participants from member companies of the Cluster Mobility & Logistics spent the afternoon gaining insights into a company that has been actively shaping transformation for over 30 years.
After arriving together, Steve Schumann, project manager at the Cluster Mobility & Logistics, and Florian Klimmer from Sonplas GmbH welcomed the guests and provided an overview of the afternoon’s program. Managing Director Christian Wachtmeister then introduced the company: from its founding in 1993, through the origin of the company name—“Sonplas” stands for “special-purpose machinery, planning, and service”—and its broad product range, to the consistent expansion of its portfolio: from traditional fuel injection technology to solutions for electric mobility, battery cell production, hydrogen, and other “new fuels.” A key message: Transformation can only succeed if you involve your employees, take responsibility, and bring passion to the cause.
The group then split into two for a factory tour. Several Sonplas GmbH employees demonstrated live in the factory halls, using current projects, how systems are developed and brought into series production at the customer’s site—covering an impressive range, from inspection and testing systems to custom-built assembly and machining systems.
A special highlight of the program was the keynote address by Dr.-Ing. E. h. Konrad Auwärter, a pioneer in bus manufacturing. He traced the history of the family-owned company Neoplan and the milestones of his own life—from his 1964 thesis, which led to the first lightweight double-decker bus for public transit, through the Skyliner double-decker tour bus, to the construction of the plant in Pilsting, Lower Bavaria. His core message was fitting for the occasion: It doesn’t work without a network—be active, collaborate, and stay the course.
During the subsequent get-together with a barbecue on the rooftop terrace, there was plenty of opportunity for exchange and informal conversations. Our project partners from the Interreg Central Europe project Drive2Transform—Business Upper Austria from Linz and NOI Techpark from South Tyrol—added an international touch.
It was an all-around successful afternoon—our heartfelt thanks go to Sonplas GmbH for their hospitality and the candid insights into the company. Representing the Cluster Mobility & Logistics were Anne Häner and Steve Schumann, project manager and project manager, respectively.
Learn more about our cluster member Sonplas GmbH: view the company profile