Altran opens automotive Centre of Excellence in Spain

International innovation and technology consulting firm Altran has agreed to invest €20 million in an automotive Centre of Excellence (CoE). The CoE, which will be based in Barcelona, will focus on innovative developments in the field of electric cars, hybrid systems and other CO2 reduction technologies. Over the next three years, hundreds of automotive engineers and consultants will be hired as staff for the CoE.

The automotive sector is one of the most important sectors for Altran, it accounts for approximately 18% of its global turnover. Altran works with several large car manufacturers, including Renault, PSA, Volkswagen, Fiat, BMW and Volkswagen. Next to performing independent research, the new CoE will also work closely with account and project teams at automotive clients.

Barcelona

The decision by Altran to locate the CoE in Barcelona was based on two reasons: “The city of Barcelona is a clear leader in automotive technology”, thus Luis Abad, Altran Vice President for Southern Europe. He continues: “As an example, we began collaborating with the City Council in 2009 to adapt the city to the introduction of electric vehicles”. Secondly, Altran already has a strong presence in Barcelona and its office in District 22 is relatively close to the manufacturing plants of several large carmakers.