Porsche AG turned the first sod to signal the start of the extension of its Research and Development Centre in Weissach (Baden-Württemberg). Porsche is enlarging the site with the addition of a highly modern design studio, a high-tech wind tunnel and an electronics integration centre. For this project, Porsche is investing about 150 million euros. The sod-turning ceremony was attended by Matthias Müller, Chairman of the Board of Management, welcomed Ursula Kreutel, Mayor of Weissach, Thomas Fritsch, Mayor of Mönsheim, Roland Bernhard, Chief Executive of the Böblingen District, and Karl Röckinger, Chief Executive of the Enz District.

With the new wind tunnel, Porsche will be able to handle upcoming technological challenges in vehicle development. Wolfgang Hatz, Board member in charge of Research and Development of Porsche AG, said that Porsche Intelligent Performance is made possible by achieving low fuel consumption and high performance. “Good aerodynamics” is seen as a major contributor to this goal. The new electronics integration centre will merge segments that had been previously distributed over several buildings. Hatz said that Porsche has set a target to continue the development of electric and hybrid technology. “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.” Uwe Hück, Chairman of the Group Works Council, added: “These investments which we agreed in July 2010 to safeguard the site – ‘Independence through competitive advantage’ – will not only protect the jobs of our permanent staff, but will actually increase the number of permanent jobs. This will strengthen the independence of Porsche.”