Germany-based automotive semiconductor heavyweight Infineon Technologies AG will set up a new research and development facility in Taiwan, reflecting the country’s growing prominence in the automotive chip sector, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said June 17.
According to the MOEA, the Infineon Advanced Automotive and Wireless Communication Semiconductor R&D Center will be the first of its kind by a European chip manufacturer in Taiwan and is expected to help establish the country as a major automotive chip development hub.
In a news conference in Taipei City, MOEA Minister Kuo Jyh-huei said Taiwan plays a critical role in the global semiconductor manufacturing supply chain and is a leader in information and communication technologies applications. The facility will help introduce advanced automotive wireless control technology to the country, promote cooperation with international counterparts and expand local firms’ presence around the world, he added.
Echoing Kuo’s remarks, Sam Geha, head of internet of things, compute and wireless business at Infineon, said that after operating 25 years in Taiwan, the company is deeply impressed by Taiwan’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, including its top-notch R&D talent pool and strong industry clusters. Building on Infineon’s existing wireless research lab in Taiwan and with support from the MOEA, the new center will work with the firm’s local partners to jointly develop innovative ICs and solutions for the automotive sector, he said.
The MOEA expects the new center to spur investment totaling NT$2.7 billion (US$83.37 million) and create output estimated at NT$60 billion for Taiwan’s electric vehicle sector. (SFC-E)
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