In an aim to increase energy efficiency in its offices, the group’s IT department reduced the pool of devices by 66 percent and eliminated around 35,000 single machines. It mainly buys from Ricoh, but a spokesperson says it can be from a variety of suppliers.
The new machines automatically report problems and toner levels to Volkswagen’s in-house service centre, enabling optimal route planning for the maintenance personnel, according to the manufacturer.
The German firm says that this way, repairs and maintenance are carried out as needed and storing consumables on site is no longer necessary. Toner cartridges are always changed in an environmentally friendly way without non-specialist staff having to get involved.
The printers are linked to all the computers so that employees can print out documents at any printer after logging onto the printer.
Head of IT Klaus Hardy Mühleck said: “Volkswagen orients it information and communication technology on criteria for sustainability. The multifunctional device project, which is now complete, was a major and successful step. And there is more to come.”