Ford Motor Company has opened a new development facility in Israel at the heart of Tel Aviv’s burgeoning technology community in the Adgar 360 building. The Blue Oval has been working with local companies and partners in Israel’s tech community for many years.
The Ford Research Center will serve as a hub for vehicle and technology innovation. Work there will support Ford’s automotive and mobility businesses by identifying technologies and startups in the fields of connectivity, sensors, automated systems research, in-vehicle monitoring, and cybersecurity. It houses a vehicle lab where the OEM will build proofs of concept and conduct AI development work.
“We recognize the importance of being in one of the world’s leading innovation communities and eco-systems. This new center is not only an expansion of our existing research and innovation centers, but it provides an opportunity to join a growing innovation community in Israel,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company.
Udy Danino, founder and CEO of SAIPS, a computer vision and machine learning company, which Ford acquired nearly three years ago, has been appointed as technical director of the new center.
“Expanding Ford’s presence in Israel with the new research center will allow us to engage with companies a lot faster, and further support Ford’s goals of bringing together our vehicle and technology expertise to create new solutions to meet the mobility challenges of today and tomorrow,” said Danino.