Volkswagen (VW) takes over Blackberry's Bochum R&D centre

Acquired in order to develop new technology in the field of car connectivity

The Volkswagen (VW) Group has announced it is taking over Blackberry's European research and development (R&D) centre in Bochum, Germany. According to a company press release, the unit will be renamed Volkswagen Infotainment. The facility has been acquired by VW in order to develop new technology in the field of car connectivity and to help formulate and develop the firm's strategies in this increasingly important field. VW Group board member for development Dr Heinz-Jakob Neußer said: "Connectivity will be a key feature of the car of the future. Many customers are expecting connected vehicles of a new dimension in terms of convenience and road safety. Around the globe, our customers' aspirations will change rapidly, leading to shortened cycles of innovation for systems and functions. In order to be able to meet these challenges, it is necessary for us to broaden and expand our options through additional know-how."