PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP, MI-Robert Bosch Corp. has begun constructing a new Technical Center here. The center, which sits on 76 acres, will cost $37.5 million and enclose 225,000 square feet. It's expected to be ready for occupancy in the first quarter of 2007, and will initially house 475 employees.

"Michigan continues to provide an ideal location for Bosch's operations, offering a close proximity to customers and an atmosphere that fosters growth for the future," says Kurt Liedtke, chairman, president and CEO of Robert Bosch Corp. "This new facility will allow us to strengthen our foundation in the state, support the long-term growth of our North American automotive business, and expand our sales and engineering activities."

The Plymouth Township facility will house research and development labs, as well as administrative space for Bosch's automotive body electrical and electronics division.

The new technical center was designed with the environment in mind. For example, the building will include a closed-loop pump system, which will recover heat generated from thermal chambers and compressors in the lab to help heat the facility. The facility will also have a unique storm water management system. Through the use of on-site wetlands, native grasses and other natural landscaping, the system will allow runoff water to be absorbed into the soil rather than retained in a holding pond.

"The decision by Bosch to invest in Michigan and build its state-of-the-art technical center here strengthens our standing as a global automotive R&D center and demonstrates that our state is the right place for international companies to grow," Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm says. "We appreciate the company's continued commitment to Michigan and look forward to a strong partnership for years to come."

In honor of its new facility, Bosch donated $10,000 to the Educational Excellence Foundation, in support of a foreign language program at the facility's neighboring Farrand Elementary School.