VALEO to produce electric drone motors at Sainte-Florine

The factory will begin producing rare-earth-free motors in 2027, boosting the industrial appeal of the Auvergne region.

Exterior view of the modern VALEO factory in Sainte-Florine, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
AI

Exterior view of the modern VALEO factory in Sainte-Florine, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

The VALEO plant in Sainte-Florine will host a new production line for electric drone motors starting in 2027, an innovative technology developed without rare earths.

A major announcement for Sainte-Florine and its region: the VALEO site will produce electric motors for drones, for civil and defense applications, starting in 2027. This innovative technology, stemming from VALEO's automotive expertise, is notable for being produced without critical rare earths.
The VALEO group has chosen Sainte-Florine for this new industrial project, leveraging the existing skills and know-how at its site, particularly in assembly, plastic injection, and electronics. This selection enhances the appeal of the municipality and the industrial basin of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
This new production marks a significant step in the diversification and future of the VALEO site, which has been established in the commune for over 60 years. The teams and employees of the site are thanked for their daily contribution to this industrial expertise.
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region is providing financial support for the establishment of this new production line, enabling innovative industrial projects to materialize within our territories.
The presentation was attended by Christophe Périllat, CEO of VALEO, Laurent Wauquiez, Member of Parliament for Haute-Loire and special advisor to the Region, Jean-Pierre Vigier, Member of Parliament for Haute-Loire, Jean-Luc Vachelard, Mayor of Brioude and president of Brioude Sud Auvergne, Jean-Paul Pastourel, Mayor of Vergongheon and president of Auzon Communauté, as well as Josiane Coste, Mayor of Sainte-Florine, and Alain Le Roux, first deputy mayor, representing the municipal council.
Based on information from the official source: Mairie de Sainte-Florine (25/09/2026)