In a move indicative of Daimler AG's growing India focus, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), the Bangalore-based captive unit which supports Daimler’s global research, IT and product development activities, has expanded its operations by inaugurating a masssive new facility today.

Located at Hinjewadi, Pune, the new unit is spread across 46,000 square feet and can house over 400 staffers. MBRDI, which is now one of Daimler's largest R&D centres outside Germany, also aims to partner closely with suppliers in India for its activities in product development and IT services.

Speaking at the inauguration, Thomas Merker, vice-president - Body and Safety, Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, and chairman, MBRDI, said: “MBRDI plays an important role within our global R&D organisation. The new facility in Pune allows us to expand while still being close to both our Mercedes-Benz plant (in Chakan) and our relevant automotive suppliers. For us, India is a strategic location as an emerging market, for the competent talent pool and global supplier network."

Manu Saale, MD and CEO, MBRDI, added: "Pune is very important for us, especially for certain areas of engineering and developments related to interiors, exteriors, powertrain, PLM, IT development and localization. We are equipped to support the closely-knit global network of R&D bases in Daimler and develop cooperation with suppliers and partners across the globe. Our new facility will be providing our engineers a best-in-class working atmosphere combined with a great location in town. Thus, we will be even more attractive to the talent pool in the region.”

The Bangalore-headquartered MBRDI focuses on topics ranging from computer-aided design and simulations (CAD, CAE) for powertrain, chassis and exteriors to embedded systems, telematics and development of various IT applications and tools. The satellite office in Pune specialiSes in interior component designs and IT engineering.