Capitalizing on the region’s flourishing technology environment, Laird recently announced it has opened a new Design Center in Bucharest, Romania to continue expanding the company’s global footprint and its leadership in automotive telematics, wireless in-vehicle charging, smartphone integration, and sophisticated antenna systems.
“We are very excited to be opening our newest Design Center here in Bucharest, which has a highly educated workforce and tremendous software expertise,” said Eric Vandernoot, SVP, Technology, Laird. “Initially, this dynamic team in Bucharest will consist of 20 engineers, although we could have as many as 40 by the end of the year as we continue developing technology for connected cars of today and for the future.”
Vandernoot said the Bucharest team will support Laird in three product categories: telematics, smartphone integration, and antenna systems. They are produced by Laird’s Connected Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division primarily for Laird’s automotive customers worldwide.
Laird’s combination of “smart” antennas and in-vehicle capabilities enable 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and satellite communications; full telematics features; consumer electronic device integration (smartphone, tablet, game console); over-the-air software updates for vehicles; in-vehicle data streaming; USB hub; wireless in-vehicle charging; and, other connected car benefits that enhance safety and the driving experience.
“At Laird, we like to say, ‘We make technology work.’ As a trusted partner to the world’s leading automotive brands, our CVS division designs, develops and delivers solutions to keep vehicles connected while on the move,” Vandernoot said. “As a leading supplier to the automotive industry, Laird is extremely well-positioned for the new world of increasing automotive connectivity, autonomous vehicle, vehicle-on-demand, and digitalization that will impact the way we all travel in the future.”
The emergence of connected cars in recent years has enabled drivers to facilitate seamless real-time communication on-the-go, along with increased comfort level, convenience, performance, safety and security.
The new Bucharest Design Center is among Laird’s 49 locations worldwide, including 21 engineering and manufacturing facilities, 18 research and design centers, and 10 sales and administrative offices in 19 countries. Laird’s new employees will work in a leased facility at 33A Dorobanti Street, near University ASE (Economic Study Academy), in an appealing, contemporary environment close to Old Downtown Bucharest that has many other businesses, restaurants, night life, and public transportation, including the Bucharest Metro.
Ken Briodagh is a writer and editor with more than a decade of experience under his belt. He is in love with technology and if he had his druthers would beta test everything from shoe phones to flying cars.
