Mercedes-Benz is spending EUR 2bn on its Turn2Learn qualification initiative focused on 'digitalisation' and artificial intelligence (AI).

Pilot programmes D.SHIFT and Data Worker are training 600 workers from various departments to become data and AI specialists.

“We urgently need more data specialists who are familiar with the production environment and have a strong grasp of digital tools and their interfaces,” said production and supply chain chief Joerg Burzer.

The automaker is offering short courses, 'learning paths' and academic degrees.

Last year, 120,000 workers took training courses in digital, software, coding, and IT.

Electric mobility training sessions attracted 77,000.

D.SHIFT allows employees to be retrained as data specialists, qualifying them for roles in analysis, artificial intelligence and software programming.

Mercedes also needs employees skilled in preparation, analysis, and data operations and is developing qualified specialists through internal retraining.