Dana to open mechatronics technology center in Rovereto, Italy

Dana Holding Corporation has announced that it will launch the Dana Mechatronics Technology Center in Rovereto, Italy, later this year to support advanced engineering programs for the off-highway market.

This technology center will be located in the noted Polo della Meccatronica di Rovereto (Italy), a cluster of companies, university departments, research centers, and other industrial accelerators devoted to mechatronics – a rapidly growing field of engineering that combines information technology, electronics, mechanics, hydraulics, and pneumatics.

Dana will use the center to identify and leverage mechatronics system development opportunities with off-highway equipment manufacturers, facilitate co-development and networking opportunities with high-tech collaborators, and attract engineering talent.  Initially, the center will encompass 11,800 square feet (1,100 square meters) of space for systems and components design and validation; technology evaluations and comparisons; proof-of-performance vehicle prototype development; feasibility and performance evaluations; and other advanced engineering functions.

The center, which will become operational during 2015, will be staffed by a team of engineers, researchers, technicians, and support personnel.  It will take advantage of substantial financial incentives available from local authorities for research and development expenses.  The Rovereto location is also in close proximity to existing Dana technology centers for off-highway axles and driveshafts. 

"The sophistication of off-highway equipment is growing at an accelerated rate, and manufacturers are increasingly adopting mechatronic technology to achieve performance and efficiency gains in the next generation of vehicles," said Aziz Aghili, president of Dana Off-Highway Driveline Technologies.  "Dana's ongoing investment in research and development to support innovative drivetrain technologies for the off-highway industry, together with the new Dana Mechatronics Technology Center demonstrates our commitment to securing the resources and talent we need to build on more than a century of engineering leadership."