Porsche invests 150 million euro in expanding its R&D headquarters

With the symbolic turning of the first sod of soil on the 28th of July, Porsche AG heralded the start of the extension of its Research and Development Centre in Weissach (Baden-Württemberg).

The site is being expanded through the addition of a highly modern design studio, a hightech wind tunnel and an electronics integration centre. Porsche is investing around 150 million euro in this respect.

“The extension of our Development Centre is a good, far-sighted investment in the future of Porsche”, said Matthias Müller, Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche AG. “The expansion being made by Porsche in Weissach also represents a clear commitment to Baden-
Württemberg as an industrial location.”

The new wind tunnel will also enable the Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer to cope with technological challenges in vehicle development in the future.

“Good aerodynamics make a major contribution towards low fuel consumption and high performance – both of which are important aspects in implementing Porsche Intelligent Performance”, said Wolfgang Hatz, Board member in charge of Research and Development of Porsche AG. The new electronics integration centre will combine segments which were previously spread over several buildings. “Our objective is also to continue developing electric and hybrid technology. We are creating the ideal conditions for attaining this objective with our new electronics integration centre”, added Hatz.

In addition to the extension of the site, Porsche is starting a wide-ranging human resources campaign which will see 200 additional employees by the end of 2011. The new new offices and design studio should be completed by mid 2013 with the wind tunnel finished in the first half of 2014.