Ford's Melbourne head office has been transformed into a new product development centre, with the company investing $50 million into vehicle capability and drive enhancement.
The new Asia Pacific Product Development Centre features state-of-the-art virtual design and engineering capabilities.
The company will also expand its 950-hectare Lara Proving Ground, located outside Geelong. New facilities will be added to test durability, crash, noise vibration and harshness.
The new testing area will help develop a greater range of driver assist technologies.
CEO Mark Fields stated that as the company continues to invest in mobility solutions and new products, Australia would be a key centre for Ford innovation globally.
Ford has also stated it will increase Australian R&D investment by 50 percent to $450 million this year. This will see the team grow to 2000 in Australia, which includes 1750 technicians, engineers and designers.
Minister for industry, inovation and science, Greg Hunt MP said the new developments by Ford will provide greater opportunities for those in the automotive industry.
“Being part of the global automotive supply chain and R&D process is important for jobs and local business opportunities.”