Audi US
Audi A2D2 development vehicle. Credit: AUDI AG.

German automaker Audi has opened its new Audi Automated Driving Development (A2D2) R&D office in Silicon Valley, the US.

The centre will focus on the development of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) technologies for the North American market.

In addition, the A2D2 office will be engaged in the development of new software and will also collaborate with nearby start-ups for production-intent applications.

Initially, the Silicon Valley facility will employ around 60 employees.

Audi America ADAS senior director Frank Grosshauser said: “Given the rapid advancement of driver assistance technologies in North America, it’s important to be part of the latest breakthroughs, work with leading edge of technology startups and attract the top talent.

“We’re looking to bring on as many as 60 engineers to develop new functionalities, catered specifically to North American Audi customer needs.”

The new centre has deployed multiple Audi Q7 development vehicles with roof-mounted sensor kits.

These testing vehicles will procure data and help software engineers in the development of new automated driver-assistance functions, scheduled to be introduced by 2023.

Audi is also working with Volkswagen Group’s Car.Software unit for the further development of automated driving solutions.

Car.Software is a newly formed organisation where all Volkswagen Group brands have transferred their automated driving development activities.

Audi is one of the largest luxury automotive brands in the world. Last year, it delivered around 1.845 million vehicles globally. In the US, Audi America sold more than 224,000 vehicles last year.

The company aims to be carbon dioxide neutral by 2050.