NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas—Continental A.G. has broken ground near New Branufels on a factory to produce components used in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, the foundation of assisted and automated driving.
Continental has budgeted roughly $110 million for the 215,000-sq.-ft. factory, which is due on stream by the second half of 2022.
"Advancing growth and innovation in ADAS technology is essential as we build cars for the future," Continental North America CEO Samir Salman said, noting that the investment supports Conti's goal of achieving zero traffic fatalities, injuries and crashes.
"More than ever, drivers want access to new technologies because it makes them and their passengers safer," Salman said. "This new facility ensures we can continue to grow and improve as we build the next generation of mobility in Texas."
Continental said the New Braunfels facility is an extension of its 20-plus years of researching and developing sensors, software and intelligent connectivity.
Among the products to be made at the plant are radar sensors, which are essential for many sophisticated safety functions such has blind-spot detection and forward-collision warning.
"The growth across automated and assisted driving is exciting as we make travel safer and more efficient," said Ryan French, Focus Factory Manager, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, Continental North America.
The New Braunfels plant will be Conti's second automotive components factory in Texas.