select language

Funding from the state of Saxony relating to the planned closure of the Freiberg mines between 1903 and 1913 led to comprehensive industrialisation in the region. The Elite Fahrzeugwerk (Elite Automobile Plant), founded in Brand-Erbisdorf in 1913, is a typical example of the new industries that began to spring up post-mining. It is also an exceptional illustration of the industrial architecture of the age. Vehicles, bicycles, vehicle parts and vehicle-manufacturing machinery were produced in this plant. The company was famed primarily for its vehicles produced under the “Elite” name, which were manufactured until 1928. After 1990, the plant was converted into an industrial park for small and medium-sized businesses.