Global technology company, Bosch, has announced the establishment of an Automotive Research and Development Centre in Limerick. The initiative will create 30 jobs over the next two years with a focus of activities on semiconductors products as well as automotive electronics.

Ireland’s Mid-West has a rich history in the design and development of semiconductor products, going back almost 50 years. The region is also emerging as a hub for automotive software and system development. The establishment of Bosch’s Automotive R&D Centre in Limerick recognises the increased demand for semiconductors as cars evolve to become sustainable and safer. 

Initial development at the facility will include integrated circuits (IC) for 77GHz radar sensors, which has applications for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Collision Avoidance and Adaptive Cruise Control as well as radar technologies for automated driving.

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD commented on the announcement, "I’m really pleased that Bosch is opening a new research and development centre in Limerick, creating 30 new highly-skilled jobs over the next two years. Ireland is recognised as a global hub for leading technology innovators like Bosch. This new automotive R&D centre will help them to benefit from our rich talent pool in the Mid-West. I wish the team the very best in this exciting new chapter."

Dr. Oliver Wolst, Senior Vice President Development of Integrated Circuits at Bosch said, "We’re very excited about the possibilities that this new facility will provide to us. Bosch is a global leader when it comes to investment in research and development and this new facility in Ireland demonstrates our commitment to working with the best engineering talent to develop the most advanced technology for our customers."

IDA Ireland Executive Director Mary Buckley said, "The decision by Bosch to establish its automotive R&D centre in Limerick further enhances the region’s reputation as an emerging hub for software and automotive systems. It is also a strong endorsement of the talent available in the Mid-West region, particularly in the areas of engineering and design. With this announcement Bosch will be well-equipped to meet the growing demand for semiconductors in automation and I wish the company success with their operations here in Ireland."