Siemens is to invest CAN$150 million over the next five years to establish a Global AI Manufacturing Technologies Research and Development (R&D) Center for Battery Production in Canada.
The new R&D centre will initially be located at the Siemens site in Oakville, Ontario. The focus will be on developing AI manufacturing technologies to support battery and electric vehicle production. This research will be underpinned by Siemen’s strengths in AI, edge computing, machine vision, digital twins and cybersecurity, the company said.
Anticipated outcomes from this research include higher, consistent quality in battery production, a reduction in battery scrap, and improved recycling and circularity. Siemens adds that its investment will “further solidify Canada’s position as leader in the green battery manufacturing sector and aligns with the government's objectives its national battery and EV ecosystem.”
Siemens’ investment is being supported by Canada’s government with CAN$23 million from its Strategic Response Fund. This fund supports large-scale, transformative projects that build economic resilience, strengthen supply chains and protect jobs in key sectors such as steel, aluminium, automotive, forest products, AI and advanced technologies. The investment by Siemens over five years includes investments in labour, equipment, software, and ecosystem support, the company said.
The investment also aligns with Canada’s automotive strategy which was announced by the country's Prime Minister earlier this year. In setting out this strategy the government said: “Recognising that the future of the automotive industry is electrified and connected, the Government of Canada is prioritizing the development of the full value chain for next generation vehicles. Through a series of deliberate and strategic investments, Canada is positioning itself as a global leader in vehicle electrification, autonomous and self-driving technologies, and the battery supply chains that will power the future of mobility.”
Commenting on Siemens’ investment, Mélanie Joly, minister of industry and minister responsible for Canada economic development for Quebec regions said that: “This investment is a significant milestone in Canada’s new auto strategy and builds on our deep and growing industrial partnership with Germany. Our government is taking bold action to attract investments that will create good jobs, strengthen our industries and build a competitive, resilient Canadian economy.”
Further reading:
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Canada and European Investment Bank to work on critical materials supply chain
- Canada’s EV supply chain gets CAN$1.2 billion investment
- Canada’s government partners with Volkswagen and Mercedes to secure battery and critical mineral supply chains
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