The Stellantis Automotive Research and Development Centre is starting to take shape.
Construction is underway and the first of 228 steel columns are being installed at the new centre being built in Windsor.
When complete, the 100,000 square foot facility will include 35 climatic test cells and 11 reach-in test cells to conduct climatic and performance testing.
"At Stellantis, we recognize the pivotal role that battery technology plays in electrifying the automotive industry. Our forthcoming North America Battery Technology Centre in Windsor will be key to design, test and produce class-leading products that will meet our customers’ needs,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis chief engineering & technology officer.
Construction is expected to be completed in mid-2024 with full-scale operations scheduled to begin for the first quarter of 2025. About 55 new positions for engineers and technicians will be created for the site.
“With multiple walk-in climatic test cells, we will rigorously evaluate batteries for pack testing, environmental durability tests, life cycle tests, and systems validation. This comprehensive testing process ensures our EV batteries are built to withstand the test of time, performing optimally in various conditions and accelerates bringing cutting-edge electric vehicles to meet the needs of our customers,” said Curic.
The Battery Technology Centre is part of the major $3.6 billion investment Stellantis announced in May 2022, with support from all three levels of government.