Volkswagen builds new R&D center

Li Pin and Tom Qian

A BRAND-NEW, multifunctional re-search and development building has been put into operation at SAiC Volk-swagen in Jiading District.

With an investment of 300 million yuan (US$46.15 million), the new build-ing covers 41,900 square kilometers, enough for nearly 2,000 employees.

Several technical departments from early stage research and development to virtual R&D and digital architec-ture will be stationed in the new building.

On the top floor of the building is the virtual review center where R&D personnel wear 3D glasses to simulate realistic scenes and experience the de-signed products on a 3D level.

For Deng Yueping, a female employee who has worked for SAiC Volkswagen for more than 20 years, the most pro-found feeling is the detail on display in the new building.

“The staff’s office areas are all beside transparent floor-to-ceiling windows, and each floor is equipped with well-designed functional service areas. There are open discussion areas, a tea bar equipped with refrigerators and microwaves and a private focus space and baby rooms,” Deng said.

Each floor of the building has its own color, and the design of the color series makes people feel lively and enriched. The building has become a landmark in Anting Town.

The new building shows the company’s emphasis on research, devel-opment and the innovation, according to Zhou Wei, executive director of the product development department.

“Last year, there are fifteen products born in the new building, and accord-ing to blueprint in 2022 and 2023 there will be 15 and 20 new products entering market from the building,” Zhou said.